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England, Ireland, Wales & Scotland Tour - 10 Days

Our 10-day England, Ireland, Wales & Scotland tour gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and heritage of these ancient lands as well visiting historic villages, towns, and cities,

We’ll travel through the heart of the glorious English countryside, passing beautiful towns such as 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. We also visit the capital cities of London, Edinburgh, Belfast, Dublin and Cardiff. This England, Ireland, Wales & Scotland Tour departs regularly throughout the year and includes carefully selected hotel accommodation with breakfast, some evening meals, and more.

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 neighborhoods, such as Covent Garden, Westminster, Mayfair, or Chelsea.

Hotel: Park Plaza Riverbank including breakfast

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 center. 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

The Lake District,

Day 3 – Lake District & Glasgow

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. Enjoy an optional relaxing cruise on Lake Windermere.  Alternatively, discover the charm of the local town Bowness-on-Windermere. We then continue traveling through the picturesque 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 Hotel, 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, and the exquisite Georgian architecture of the New Town. In the evening, we return to the Novotel Glasgow Center Hotel and will have a delicious meal at a local restaurant (included). Enjoy an optional trip to Rosslyn Chapel.  This historic 15th-century building has a painted ceiling which includes a dove with an olive branch ( a symbol of the Knights Templar) popularized by The Da Vinci Code novel.

Day 5 – Belfast

We’ll head down the Scottish coastline and take a short ferryride across to Northern Ireland, arriving soon after in Belfast. Belfast is the capital city of Northern Ireland.  Accompanied by a local specialist  we’ll explore Belfast,  including City Hall and the dock where the Titanic was built. From here, it’s straight to our hotel in Dublin. In the evening enjoy an optional meal at a local restaurant-pub where you will taste authentic Irish cuisine and experience the famous Irish hospitality

Ballsbridge Hotel or The Address Hotel Connolly, breakfast included for both.

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, the tallest church in Ireland, Trinity College, and the pretty Georgian squares. Visit the Guinness Storehouse in St James’s Gate. This is where the story of Guinness began in 1759.  Learn how this once-small brewery has become one of the most popular beers worldwide.  There will be time for tasting in the Gravity Bar which looks out over fantastic views of the city.  Spend the rest of the day at your leisure soaking up the special and unique Irish culture.

Alternatively, enjoy an optional visit to Glendalough, once a glacial valley that became an early monastic site in the 6th century.  Explore the remains, including the Round Tower.

In the evening, enjoy an optional traditional Irish cabaret experience famed for its Irish music, dance, songs, and humor.

Ballsbridge Hotel or The Address Hotel Connolly.  Breakfast included.

Day 7 – Kilkenny and Waterford

Departing Dublin, we head to the Irish National Stud, world-famous for rearing thouroughbred racehorses. Enjoy a a guided tour, followed by a walk in the stunning Japanese Gardens, considered to be the finest in Europe. From here, admire the medieval Kilkenny Castle, built in 1260 AD, before some free time for lunch. We then head south to the Waterford Crystal Studios to watch the craftsmen produce their exquisite cut glass and visit the Waterford Crystal shop.

Enjoy either an optional guided tour of Waterford, the oldest city in Ireland. It is thought to have been founded by the Vikings in the 9th Century. Explore the city’s rich heritage with a local guide, followed by a visit to one of the city’s oldest pubs.

or, enjoy an optional evening of traditional Irish entertainment, including folk songs and singing, and maybe even a pint or two!

Evening accommodation is either at the Waterford Marina Hotel or The Fitzwilton Hotel Waterford. Breakfast included.

Day 8 – Cardiff

‘The Keep’, the fortified tower built within the walls of Cardiff Castle

Day 8 of this England, Ireland, Scotland & Wales tour is spent in Cardiff. We start the day by taking the ferry across the Irish Sea, and head to Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. We take a panoramic tour of the city passing many of the historic sites including the Millenium Centre, National Assembly and Cardiff Castle. There is an optional visit to the 11th-century  Castle. Enjoy the richly decorated interiors; each room is decorated with exquisite murals, stained glass, gilding, and with superb craftsmanship. Walk the battlements and enjoy amazing views.

In the evening, we  travel into the countryside to visit a sustainable farm run by a local Welsh family. They will demonstrate their farming techniques, meet some of the resident animals, and see their vineyard, which is the oldest and largest in Wales. Experience Welsh hospitality and enjoy a homemade meal with the family. This is included in the package.

Evening accommodation is in the Park Inn by Radisson Cardiff City Center.

Breakfast and dinner included.

Day 9 – Bath & Stonehenge

Crossing back into England, we arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage City of Bath. Admire the city’s elegant Georgian architecture and medieval Bath Abbey, which have been used as backdrops to many famous movies. Visit the 2000-year-old Roman Baths, which utilized natural warm springs to create a place to bathe and from which the city takes its name.

We then visit Stonehenge. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most mysterious places in the world. Built over 5,000 years ago, admiring the Neolithic stone circles, followed by a visit to the Neolithic Village and state-of-the-art Visitors Center.

From here, we continue on to London.

Evening Accomodation is at the Park Plaza London Riverbank, County Hall.

Breakfast included.

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)
• Dinners where stated
• Transportation via luxury coach with WIFI and a ferry to and from Ireland
• Driver and a travel director
• Audio headsets
• All porterage and restaurant gratuities

Tour excludes:

• Optional experiences. These can be purchased on the day via your tour director
• On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

Availability and Pricing:

• View our availability and pricing

Get in touch:

• If you have any questions please contact us
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England & Scotland Tour - 10 Days

Highlights of England, Scotland & Ireland

4.7 out of 5 stars

You have up to 60 days to get a full refund

Feel good about putting a tour on the calendar today: Enroll in AutoPay or pay in full when you book, and if you change your mind,  you’ll get your money back .†

From modern to medieval and green to Gothic, explore the best of Great Britain and Ireland’s landscapes and landmarks.

Our travelers love this tour as their first time out of the country—or as an energetic way to experience as much of England, Scotland, and Ireland as they can. No wonder it’s one of our most popular trips. You’ll launch your Anglophile adventure in cosmopolitan London, where you’ll get to meet Big Ben and the Tower of London before boarding a train through the hilly English countryside to Edinburgh, Scotland. There, let the Georgian and Victorian architecture transport you back in time through cobblestone streets. Finish your trip with a feast for the eyes as you ferry to Ireland’s cliffs, swathed in a hundred hues of green. And, if London’s calling you, take the early arrival option and enjoy two more days in the city to explore its rich heritage—and rank your favorite chip shops.

Your tour package includes

• 10 nights in handpicked hotels
• 10 breakfasts
• 4 dinners with beer or wine
• 6 sightseeing tours
• Expert Tour Director & local guides

Included highlights

• Trafalgar Square
• Buckingham Palace
• Edinburgh Castle
• Local pub culture

An expert specializing in tours of this region is here to help.

Day-by-day itinerary

Board your overnight flight to London today.

Welcome to England! If you arrive between noon and 6 p.m., we recommend you treat yourself to afternoon tea—the traditional British meal of cakes, biscuits, dainty sandwiches, and, of course, tea.  

Tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner, served with beer or wine. 

London’s been settled for almost 2,000 years, and its history winds through Roman, Anglo-Saxon, and Viking rule. Your guided tour takes you through the relics, landmarks, and stories of this vibrant and cosmopolitan city of contrasts. 

• Pass the grand Trafalgar Square commemorating the British naval victory over France and Spain in 1805. Keep your eye out for the square’s four bronze lion statues guarding Nelson’s Column, as well as the National Gallery art museum. 
• Gaze up at the dome and spires of St. Paul’s Cathedral, perched atop Ludgate Hill. The Anglican cathedral, once the tallest building in London, has held services for state funerals, jubilee celebrations, and the wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer.  
• See Westminster Abbey, the setting for royal coronations since 1066 and the final resting place of William Shakespeare, Isaac Newton, and many other luminaries.  
• View the city’s defining landmarks, including Big Ben—the Great Bell of the clock at the north end of the Palace of Westminster and London’s unofficial calling card. You’ll also pass the Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels of England, but also lions and a polar bear during its time as a menagerie of exotic wild animals.  
• Take in the contrast of old and new when you pass by Tower Bridge, the largest bascule bridge ever completed at the time, and the London Eye—the larger-than-life observation wheel that’s quickly become symbolic of the city.  
• Stop by Buckingham Palace, the royal residence in London where you may catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony—just look for the distinctive red tunics and tall bearskin caps.  

Can’t get enough of castles and kings? Add the excursion to Windsor Castle for a fascinating peek into the royal goings-on at the world’s longest-inhabited castle, as well as the historic market town of Windsor. 

Not joining the excursion? Enjoy a free afternoon in London to shop and dine in posh Covent Garden in the West End or head to Shoreditch for its vibrant art and street food scene. Your Tour Director is also your go-to source for recommendations.  

Windsor Castle

From $125 per person

Journey by train through the English countryside and past the lochs—or lakes—and rolling hills of Scotland. Watch ancient castles, cathedrals, and villages drift in and out of view as the train winds to your destination in Edinburgh.

Tonight, sit down with your fellow travelers for an included dinner, served with beer or wine.

Please note: Porterage is not included for the train transfers. Travelers must be comfortable lifting and carrying all luggage over steps, onto platforms, and into luggage storage.

Nestled between the rivers Almond and Esk, Edinburgh emerges from a series of hills and rocky ridges, earning its nickname Athens of the North. Get to know the Scottish capital and all its medieval beauty on a tour led by a local expert.

• View the elegant, dramatic neoclassical and Georgian architecture in New Town. The ornate sandstone and granite structures surrounding oasis-like gardens and green spaces became a model for European urban planning.
• Contrast New Town’s grace with Old Town’s rustic Royal Mile, which runs between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace—the official residence of British monarchs in Scotland. Here, you’ll cross moody narrow streets and alleys, known as “closes,” flanked by brooding stone buildings and timeworn cathedrals.
• Pass the towering Sir Walter Scott monument—paying homage to the Ivanhoe and Rob Roy scribe—one of the largest monuments devoted to an author in the world.
• Ascend to Castle Rock and enter Edinburgh Castle. Standing on an extinct volcano at the top of the Royal Mile, it houses the Scottish crown jewels and Stone of Scone—in use since the 13th century for coronation of the monarchs of England, Great Britain, and the United Kingdom.

Looking to be swept away by the wild romance of the Scottish Borders region? Add an excursion and join fellow literature lovers for a quest to the home of Sir Walter Scott and the Gothic ruins of Melrose Abbey.

Prefer to see more of Edinburgh? Use your free afternoon in the city to go back and wander the winding streets of Old Town. If you’re feeling adventurous, perhaps consider a spooky stroll through the tunnels that weave underneath the city. Of course, there’s always tucking into a booth in a cozy cafe and lingering over tea and shortbread.

Please note: The order of today's activities are subject to change.

Abbotsford House & Melrose Abbey

From $109 per person

Travel through the jewel-green landscapes of Northern England, stopping along the way to enjoy a break in one of the Lake District’s charming towns. This seductive side of England has inspired adventure seekers and poets alike with its mountainous landscape, lakes, and peat bogs.

Then, continue to Liverpool and enjoy a free evening in the city to unwind by the waterfront.

Travel through northern Wales and stop in the village of Llanfair­pwllgwyngyll­gogery­chwyrn­drobwll­llan­tysilio­gogo­goch, which is the longest-named place in Europe. Then, continue to Holyhead and board a ferry across the Irish Sea to Dublin. 

As soon as you step off the ferry in Dublin, you’ll understand dramatist Lady Gregory’s claim that “I feel more and more the time wasted that is not spent in Ireland.” You’ll take a comprehensive tour of Ireland’s capital city with a local guide and get a taste of the country’s rich history and craic—that trademark acerbic banter.  

• Stop in Phoenix Park, an expanse of woodlands, sprawling lawns, the occasional fallow deer, and site of the presidential residence. You’ll also pass by the Guinness Brewery and should you find yourself with a pint of the famous brew in hand, remember to sip it slowly. 
• Step inside the soaring St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Ireland’s largest church, and gaze up at its stained-glass windows shimmering with depictions of biblical scenes and saints. 
• Feast your eyes on the verdant and flowering landscaping throughout St. Stephen’s Green, a peaceful retreat, and admire the ivy-covered Georgian architecture of Merrion Square as you go. 
• See Trinity College, alma mater of notables from Oscar Wilde to Samuel Beckett, and walk past Grafton Street to the Molly Malone statue. Hum the traditional Irish song dedicated to this figure of local folklore before continuing to the Temple Bar district’s lined with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets buzzing with street performers and artisans.  

If the Temple Bar district has you clamoring for more quintessential Irish merriment, join the excursion for a dinner and a showcase of the thundering rhythms and precise footwork of Irish dance.   

Prefer a quieter night? Use your free time this evening for a sunset stroll along the River Liffey, or head to Ha’Penny Bridge for a breathtaking nighttime view of the city.  

Traditional Irish Dinner & Show

Resume your journey through the Emerald Isle today. You’ll roll through lush green landscapes, storybook villages, and the farmlands that dot Ireland’s countryside.  

• Make a photo stop at the famed Rock of Cashel in County Tipperrary, an ancient fortification surrounding a medieval cathedral standing above the limestone outcrops. 
• Gain the gift of gab — or so the legends promise — when you enter Blarney Castle to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. 

Continue to County Kerry and sit down for an included dinner this evening, served with beer or wine. 

Set out on the Ring of Kerry, a 112-mile coastal route that covers some of Ireland’s most spectacular scenery as it winds around the Iveragh Peninsula. Expect your breath to catch with every rugged mile of coastal vistas and windswept beaches.  

• Pass the pristine Lakes of Killarney in Killarney National Park and gaze across Dingle Bay. On a clear day, the lakes’ crystal-clear waters reflect the surrounding forests and hills. 
• Try not to blink so you won’t miss a moment of the ever-changing views of mountains, beaches, and the Atlantic Ocean. 
• Explore the quaint villages that line the Ring of Kerry, including the village of Sneem, with its candy-colored storefronts. 

This morning, travel north to walk the mesmerizing coastline of the Cliffs of Moher. Perched along Ireland’s west coast, the weathered cliffs extend for about five miles and are marked by jagged rock formations and abundant birdlife. Walking close to the cliffs’ edge is a thrilling but dizzying experience due to the sheer drop, but you can rest assured that the view’s just as good from the well-maintained walking paths.  

Continue to Dublin this afternoon and celebrate your trip during a farewell dinner, served with beer or wine. 

Transfer to the airport for your flight home. 

Board your overnight flight to London today. 

Welcome to England! Meet your Tour Director and fellow early arrival travelers as you enjoy a welcome drink this evening. 

Exclusively offered on this tour for our early arrivals, join an excursion to the iconic and mysterious Stonehenge, whose 4,000-year-old monoliths have bewitched visitors. 

Prefer to stay in town and explore? Check out the lesser-known street food markets, like Maltby Street Market or Druid Street Market, or stroll the tranquil canals of Little Venice, a peaceful enclave with narrowboats, waterside cafes, and whimsical houseboats. 

Stonehenge & Salisbury

From $149 per person

Your early arrival has you with the day to yourself. Get a head start on exploring London before tomorrow’s tour of the city’s major monuments. Check out chic Notting Hill or the emerging art scene in Graffik Gallery. 

Meet up with the rest of your tour group and get to know everyone during tonight’s welcome dinner, served with beer or wine. Tomorrow, you’ll all set off together for the main tour starting right where you are, London, before continuing to Edinburgh and beyond.  

Book for just $99 down

That’s all it takes to secure your spot on tour with AutoPay. Then, pay for your trip in interest-free, monthly installments.†

Overall rating 4.7 out of 5

2 out of 5 stars

Antonyo was great but its not what i was told i ask for a high activity tour and got a busy ride

Hi Michael, Thank you for your feedback. We're so...

5 out of 5 stars

Our tour guide was Amazing! I feel Hew went above and beyond to make myself and all 38 of us feel welcome, informative, and safe. He truly had our best interest at heart. From his Beautiful British personality, to introducing me to stunning scenery, and history behind this wonderful country. I will ...

This was a great introduction to European touring.. We added London extension and I highly recommend because London is such a big city! Our tour guide was very helpful giving suggestions about things to see and do in each city as well as making sure we had adequate stops on bus riding days. The bus ...

Traveler photos

Hotels, flights & FAQ

This boutique-styled hotel is located in the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea in Central London. Guests enjoy the fitness room, a beautifully lan...

This modern hotel is located in the New Town of Edinburgh. Guests enjoy the lounge bar, the relaxing Great Room, and convenient location. Nearby, you’...

This unique hotel is located along the River Mersey in Liverpool’s commercial district. Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and a bar. Nearby, you’...

This boutique hotel is located in Dublin’s city center. Guests enjoy the bistro, a gym, and the hotel bar. Nearby, you’ll find EPIC The Irish Emigrati...

This elegant hotel is located in Tralee, County Kerry, along the Wild Atlantic Way. Guests enjoy the manicured gardens and an intimate second-floor ba...

• Round-trip flight for your tour
• Airport transfers at your destination
• A great price locked in today
• 24/7 support from our dedicated service team
• Options for arriving early, staying longer, or requesting an upgrade
• Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes
• Find out more about flights
• In order to enter the United Kingdom and Ireland, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry.
• We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps.
• There is no visa required for U.S. or Canadian citizens.
• If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements.
• You can see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching the code BES.
• Round-trip flights booked through Go Ahead Tours arrive in London and depart from Dublin.
• Transfers to and from the airport at your destination are included for travelers who have purchased their flights through Go Ahead Tours. Travelers who purchase their own flights may request airport transfers with Go Ahead Tours for an additional cost if they are arriving or departing on the standard day.
• When you arrive in London, a driver from a private chauffeur service will be standing at the arrival hall with your name on a message board. If you do not see your driver, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly.

Physical Activity Level

• This is a moderate physical activity-level tour. You can expect casual walks and plenty of time to explore throughout the course of the tour.

Tour Pacing

This is a brisk-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect:

• Two 1-night stays
• Most days full of included activities (more if you add excursions)
• Most transportation by motor coach
• Some transportation by train and ferry
• Daily bus time varies and can be lengthy

Walking, Terrain & Physical Requirements

• Travelers should be prepared to walk 2 miles per day over varying terrain—this includes city streets, cobblestones, some stairs and hills.
• Cobblestone streets can become slick when wet.
• Access to Edinburgh Castle will involve walking half a mile up a steep hill.
• While visiting Blarney Castle, travelers have the opportunity to kiss the Blarney Stone. In order to kiss the Blarney Stone, travelers must climb 128 very steep, narrow stairs.
• Travelers should be healthy enough to participate in all included walks without assistance.
• Please Note: Adding optional excursions may increase the total amount of walking on your tour.

Climate Considerations

• Travelers can expect cool, cloudy, and rainy days throughout the year, with occasional heatwaves in the summer months (June-September).

Physical Activity & Tour Pace Questions

• Go Ahead Tours and the Tour Director who accompanies your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Director is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual.
• Due to the pace and physical activity level of this tour, mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers will be difficult to use and are not recommended. Please notify Go Ahead Tours before your departure if you plan to bring these on tour with you.
• If you have mobility concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or send a message to our Customer Experience Team. We’re here to help!
• This tour includes various modes of transportation including trains, ferries, and private motor coach. Some modes of transportation will have raised platforms or steps and often not provide access to ramps or lifts.
• A train ride from London to Edinburgh and ferry ride from Holyhead to Dublin are included in the price of your tour.
• All other included transportation on this tour is by private motor coach.
• European train stations typically operate similarly to airports where security measures, such as baggage and body scanners, are common. Platforms are often spread out across large distances and require travelers to manage their luggage on escalators or stairs. Porterage services are not offered on train transfers and luggage storage on trains is extremely limited. Please keep in mind that trains may only be stopping at the stations for a few minutes; speed with loading and unloading may be imperative.
• Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one personal item per person due to storage limitations on motor coaches and other transfers, which include a train and ferry.
• Some airlines may impose additional charges if you exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you are responsible for any baggage fees incurred on all flights.
• Contact your airline(s) for baggage size and weight restrictions for your flights.
• Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag.
• Travelers must manage their own luggage throughout tour as porters are not guaranteed. This includes at hotels, getting on trains, and boarding ferries.
• Luggage storage on trains is extremely limited, and often requires travelers to lift their suitcases onto storage racks, sometimes above the seats.
• We recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered to accommodate varying temperatures, as well as a light jacket or rainwear.
• A sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers is recommended for sightseeing.
• You may want to pack dressier attire if you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance.
• It is preferable not to visit churches or other religious sites with bare legs and shoulders (and entrance may be denied on this basis).
• We recommend packing a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastic waste.
• We recommend packing a universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter.
• We recommend packing your Insurance Card (from your primary insurance provider) in your carry on luggage.
• Go Ahead handpicks every hotel you’ll stay at, striking a balance between comfort, location, and local charm.
• Specific properties will vary based on your departure date, but are typically three-to-four-star hotels; always include private bathrooms; and usually have in-room safes for valuables. Additionally, your hotels will have Wi-Fi, but access may be limited to common areas. There may also not be elevators.
• Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee that your accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. We recommend checking directly with your hotels once they’ve been confirmed, about 30 days prior to departure.
• Some hotels on this tour are situated on narrow streets; as such, our buses can’t drop you off right out front. In these instances, you’ll have to walk your luggage to the property, no more than a few blocks.
• Please be advised that the air conditioning in European hotels and buildings is often not as strong or cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada.
• The United Kingdom and Ireland operate within 230-240 volts and use a Type G plug with three large, flat pins.
• Specific accommodations will vary based on your departure date.
• Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app for an additional $10 USD.
• We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them.
• Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled by Go Ahead Tours, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed.
• Your Tour Director may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency).
• At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's website at cdc.gov .
• If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies, please notify Go Ahead Tours at least 30 days prior to departure by logging into your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team.
• If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour, as well as any possible delays encountered.
• Most of our itineraries include headsets used during certain sightseeing tours so travelers can hear their guides or Tour Director. If you use an assisted listening device, such as a hearing aid or cochlear implant, please visit our Help Center for more information or contact our customer experience team. Please note that at this time not all our destinations offer headsets due to supplier limitations.
• The water is safe to drink throughout your tour unless posted otherwise.
• This tour includes 4 dinners. Included meals may be plated set menus, buffet or family style depending on the location. Dinners include one glass of beer, wine, or soft drink and water, coffee and tea.
• Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options.
• For traditional English fare at a reasonable price, try a pub meal of fish and chips or bangers and mash. Stilton cheese, steak and kidney pie, and Cumberland sausages are also worth a try. Sip afternoon tea with delicious finger sandwiches and scones at Harrods in London for the ultimate in English tradition.
• Modern-day London boasts an array of diverse international restaurants. Popular options for the adventurous palate include Indian, Thai, Chinese, Indonesian, Greek, and West African cuisine.
• Scottish cuisine relies on readily available ingredients like game, dairy, and fish, with little use of exotic spices. Pickled kippers and smoked salmon are popular, as well as hearty dishes like Scotch broth (a stew of meat and root vegetables) and haggis (a savory pudding of sheep innards). Scotch whisky is a legendary local spirit, and Scottish ales are world-famous.
• Irish pubs serve up hearty lunches, such as a traditional stew of bacon and boiled cabbage. Soda bread is delicious, very filling, and served with many meals. Nibble a scone at afternoon tea, with a pat of high-quality butter from County Kerry. Guinness stout is an international sensation, but locals might favor Murphy’s, depending on where you are.
• Dublin has seen something of a culinary revolution in recent times, and the city now boasts an impressive array of new restaurants offering exciting cuisine with Continental Europe, Asian, and even American influences.
• At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity in US dollars or local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind.
• We recommend tipping the equivalent of $10USD to $12USD per person, per day for your Tour Director and the equivalent of $3USD per person per day for your driver.
• If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD per local guide.
• Tips can only be paid in cash.
• The cost of porterage is included in your tour price, and it is not necessary to tip baggage handlers.
• You will use the pound sterling in the United Kingdom and the euro in Ireland.
• Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, but you may choose to order some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive.
• We strongly advise that you take debit/bank cards and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed.
• You can use most debit/credit cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees.
• Inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
• International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you don't already have at least one debit or credit card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour.
• Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your tour director, local guides, and bus drivers. We also recommend keeping coins in the local currency on hand, as some public bathrooms may charge a fee for use.
• To ensure you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend you download the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app. The app is free and provides important deadlines, entry requirements, your detailed itinerary, packing tips and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the chat feature in the app.
• Wifi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply.
• There is no Wifi on any of the motor coaches.
• Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges.
• Your Tour Director will be leading your group throughout your journey. You will have the same Tour Director throughout your tour.
• The role of the Tour Director is not only to provide information and context on the destinations you visit, but also to confirm services, coordinate inclusions, prepare each days’ activities and support travelers while on tour. As such, they must focus on the success of the group, and cannot provide individualized assistance to any one traveler.
• One of the benefits of traveling with EF Go Ahead Tours is our on tour emergency support team.
• Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way.
• This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events.
• As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home.
• The United Kingdom and Ireland are on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), which is 5 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET).
• When it’s noon in New York, it’s 5pm on tour.
• When you travel with EF Go Ahead Tours, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit, and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer
• Travel, when done responsibly, can make an enormous socio-economic impact to communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at local businesses. Ask your Tour Director to point out restaurants they recommend
• Prepare for your trip: be aware of the monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market, learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette, and take some time to learn a few words in the local language
• When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind
• EF Go Ahead Tours encourages our travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single use plastics. You can avoid single use plastics by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle
• Environment: On this tour, we recommend the use of a reusable water bottle, as the local drinking water is safe for travelers. Your Tour Director can provide additional guidance on local water standards. Make sure to bring a reusable water bottle to cut down on single use plastics.
• Environment: When visiting national parks, reserves, or other protected areas, please do not remove anything from the natural environment or leave any litter. Carry out what you carried in.

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Home » Scotland Tour Itineraries » 21 Day UK Tour

3 Weeks Driver-Guided UK Tour Itinerary

England, Scotland & Ireland in Just 21 Days

Welcome to our meticulously crafted 21-day driver-guided Tour of the UK, covering England, Scotland, and Ireland in just 21 glorious days.

Traverse the rolling hills of the English countryside, delve into Scotland’s mystic lochs, and embrace Ireland’s rugged coastlines. Each day unfolds with new adventures, from historic castle ruins and vibrant cityscapes to serene landscapes that whisper tales of yore.

Join us for an unforgettable voyage into the heart of the British Isles.

Destinations on Our 21-Day England, Scotland & Ireland Tour

• Day 1: London
• Day 2: London
• Day 3: Windsor & Hampton Court
• Day 4: Bath & Stonehenge
• Day 5: The Cotswolds
• Day 6: Stratford-Upon-Avon
• Day 7: Lincoln
• Day 8: York
• Day 9: Newcastle & Edinburgh
• Day 10: Edinburgh
• Day 11: Edinburgh
• Day 12: St Andrews & The Forth Bridges
• Day 13: Dunkeld, Pitlochry & Blair Castle
• Day 14: Inverness & Loch Ness
• Day 15: Inverness Surroundings
• Day 16: Ben Nevis, Glencoe & Oban
• Day 17: Isle of Mull & Iona or Tobermory
• Day 18: Loch Lomond & Dublin
• Day 19: Dublin & Galway
• Day 20: Cliffs of Moher & The Burren
• Day 21: Ring of Kerry

Day 1: Royal and Parliamentary London

With London being the first destination on our itinerary, what would be more appropriate than exploring the city’s royal and parliamentary marvels? Visit Buckingham Palace, witness the grandeur of the Houses of Parliament, and see the iconic Big Ben.

Buckingham Palace Tour

Renowned as the most iconic Royal Residence in the UK, Buckingham Palace stands as the King’s official abode in London and plays a pivotal role in numerous Royal festivities.

Availability for private tours is limited to the summer period, so we encourage early contact to secure your entry. With a personal guide at your side, you’ll gain exclusive access to 19 opulent staterooms and the majestic Royal Palace Garden.

The allure of the State Rooms is undeniable, but the addition of a knowledgeable Palace guide enhances the experience immeasurably. Delve into the rich tapestry of history and tradition that adorns each room, illuminated by stories of historic figures from Queen Victoria’s reign in 1837 to the current monarch, King Charles.

Your exploration of Buckingham Palace will include:

• The Regal Throne Room
• The Grand Ballroom
• The elegant Music Room
• The resplendent White Drawing Room
• The impressive Grand Staircase
• Palace’s treasured artifacts
• The stately Marble Hall
• The illustrious Picture Gallery
• The formal State Dining Room
• The ceremonial Changing of the Guard

Westminster Abbey

Your unforgettable walking tour of London continues as you delve into the heart of British governance and history, visiting the majestic Westminster Abbey, the iconic Houses of Parliament, and the renowned clocktower, Big Ben, which towers over the Palace of Westminster.

This leg of the journey begins at the awe-inspiring Westminster Abbey, a site of coronations for English monarchs since William the Conqueror in 1066 following the Battle of Hastings. It is also the final resting place for some of England’s most notable historical figures.

With your guide, you will have the opportunity to pay respects at the graves of personalities such as Mary Queen of Scots and renowned authors like Charles Dickens, the esteemed Scottish poet Robert Burns, T.S. Eliot, known for “The Waste Land” and “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock,” as well as the celebrated Romantic poet John Keats, among others.

Houses of Parliament & Big Ben Tour

A brief stroll from Westminster Abbey brings you beneath the recently restored Big Ben.

Descending from the clocktower, you’ll enter the sacred chambers of the Palace of Westminster, or the Houses of Parliament. Accompanied by your personal guide, discover the intricate workings of the House of Commons and the illustrious House of Lords. Your Tour of the Houses of Parliament includes visits to:

• The historic Westminster Hall
• The Queen’s Robing Room
• The Commons Chamber
• The Lords Chamber

Day 2: The Crown Jewels & Tower Of London

On the second day, your driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for an early visit to the Crown Jewels.

Tower of London Exploration

Experience immediate entry and be guided by one of the esteemed Queen’s Yeoman Warders through the Tower of London.

You’ll be introduced to captivating displays, including the illustrious Crown Jewels, the ‘Torture at the Tower’ exhibit, the Fusiliers Museum, and the Royal Mint exhibit, enriching your understanding of British history.

Tower Bridge Experience

Behold the splendor of Tower Bridge, a defining symbol of London known for its striking Victorian Gothic design, breathtaking views, and the awe-inspiring sight of its hydraulic mechanisms in action, allowing vessels to navigate through. With your guide, delve into the history and mechanics of the engine rooms of this architectural marvel, constructed from 1886 to 1894, and delve into the history and mechanics.

The British Museum, London

Next, your guide will take you on an enlightening journey through the British Museum, where a collection of over 8 million artifacts, with 80,000 displayed at any one time, awaits.

On your private Tour, your guide will bring these historical treasures to life, unfolding the captivating tales and significant events behind their existence.

London Eye Experience

Wrap up the initial day of your 21-day UK adventure with a stroll to the Thames’ South Bank, where the London Eye awaits to elevate you 135 meters above the city. As you settle into the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheel, embrace the breathtaking 360-degree views of London’s skyline, showcasing landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and The Shard, among other iconic sites.

The London Eye offers a panoramic view of London, with a spectacular view of the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower Bridge, and The Shard, among other famous sights.

Day 3: Journey from London to Windsor Castle and Hampton Court Palace

Enjoy a luxurious ride in one of our executive vehicles for a driver-guided excursion from London to the regal Windsor Castle, followed by a visit to the historic Hampton Court Palace.

Morning: Windsor Castle Exploration

Embark on a 45-minute journey from London to Windsor Castle, a residence deeply cherished by The Queen and a site of profound historical significance to the British monarchy, even influencing King George V to adopt Windsor as the royal surname in 1917.

During your visit to Windsor Castle, you will experience:

• Priority entry to Windsor Castle
• A visit to St George’s Chapel, the venue for numerous Royal weddings
• Queen Mary’s Dollhouse display
• A tour through the State Apartments
• Exploration of The Moat Room
• A guided showcase of the castle’s esteemed art collection
• The Royal China Museum
• Following a delightful lunch at Windsor Castle’s Undercroft Café, your driver-guide will escort you to the next royal marvel, Hampton Court Palace.

Hampton Court Palace Experience

Dive into the rich tapestry of Hampton Court Palace’s history, dating back to 1529 and famously linked to King Henry VIII. The Palace’s architecture perfectly blends Tudor and Baroque styles, a legacy of King William III’s architectural enhancements.

Your exploration of Hampton Court Palace will include:

• Fast-track access and a tour of the Great Hall with its iconic hammer-beam ceiling
• Viewing of the Abraham Tapestries
• A walk through the eerie Haunted Gallery
• Visits to the State Apartments of both King William III and King Henry VIII
• Leisurely time in the expansive gardens, featuring a maze and a historic grapevine
• A look into the grandeur of Tudor England’s largest kitchens

Conclude your day of royal indulgence as you comfortably return to your London stay, reflecting on a day steeped in the grandeur and legacy of England’s most storied palaces and castles.

Day 4: Stonehenge and Bath

Before venturing into the heart of Stonehenge, immerse yourself in the enigma surrounding this ancient monument. With your guide’s insightful narration, delve into various theories and tales about its construction, the origins of its massive stones, and its ancient purpose.

The visitor center offers engaging audiovisual displays that captivate visitors of all ages and shed light on this prehistoric marvel.

Step into the mystical circle of Stonehenge with your private guide leading the way. Be transported through time to an era 5000 years past as your guide weaves a vivid narrative, placing you among the ancient people who once revered this site as a sacred temple.

Stonehenge stands unparalleled in its blend of mystery, myth, and legend. Your dedicated guide will ensure that your encounter with this iconic landmark is memorable and deeply personal, fostering a profound connection with this unique and mystical site.

Roman City of Bath Guided Tour

Your next destination is the enchanting 18th-century city of Bath, a gem that enjoys the distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage site in its entirety.

Accompanied by your private driver-guide, embark on a scenic car tour of Bath’s highlights, including Bath Abbey, The Royal Crescent, and tributes to literary legends such as Jane Austen, Mary Shelley, Charles Dickens, and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

At the heart of Bath lies the exceptionally preserved ruins of one of the ancient world’s most significant religious spas, a cornerstone of Roman heritage in England and Northern Europe. Initiated around 60-70AD and evolving over 300 years, the Romans erected a magnificent temple and bathing complex centered around Britain’s sole hot spring.

During your exclusive Tour, delve into the origin of these thermal waters and tread along ancient stone paths, just as the Romans did, around the still-functioning baths.

Overnight in Bath.

Day 5: Enchanting Journey Through the Cotswolds

Day 5 of your adventure brings a delightful escape with your driver-guide to the Cotswolds, a region celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and quintessentially English villages.

Recognized as an “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty,” the Cotswolds are synonymous with tranquil stone-built villages, sprawling manor houses, and charming thatched cottages, seemingly untouched by time.

The Cotswolds are known for their picturesque scenery and for housing some of the finest artisan craft shops in the UK.

Chastleton House

Begin exploring Chastleton House, a quintessential Jacobean estate established in 1607 by the wool merchant Walter Jones.

Having remained within one family for 400 years before the National Trust’s stewardship in 1991, Chastleton offers a genuine glimpse into historical domestic life adorned with period-specific furnishings and decorations.

Venture to Bibury, a village that captivated British poet William Morris and led him to declare it “the most beautiful village in England. “

The highlight of Bibury is Arlington Row, a series of ancient weaver’s cottages dating back to 1380. Don’t miss St Mary’s Church, notable for its Norman arches, 13th-century doorway, and Saxon pillars.

Bourton-on-the-Water

Conclude your day in Bourton-on-the-Water, often called the “Venice of the Cotswolds” due to its idyllic riverside setting.

Wander along the waterways, crossing its quaint bridges, and explore the village’s array of antique shops and stone cottages, rounding off a day steeped in the Cotswolds’ serene beauty and rich history.

Return to Bath in the evening.

Day 6: Exploring Stratford-Upon-Avon - The Heart of Shakespeare's World

Leave Bath behind as you journey to the historic heart of England’s literary heritage, Stratford-Upon-Avon, the medieval town where William Shakespeare was born and spent his formative and final years.

As you wander through this charming market town with your private guide, you’ll be transported back to the Elizabethan era, visiting key locations that played pivotal roles in the life of the Bard. These sites, preserved through the centuries, offer a tangible connection to Shakespeare, allowing you to walk in his footsteps and experience the world as he knew it.

Holy Trinity Church

Visit the revered Holy Trinity Church, the site of Shakespeare’s baptism, marriage to Anne Hathaway, and final resting place. This sacred space provides a profound insight into the personal milestones of Shakespeare’s life.

Shakespeare's Schoolroom

Explore the Stratford Grammar School, where Shakespeare’s early education unfolded, sparking his illustrious literary journey.

Hall’s Croft

Discover Hall’s Croft, the elegant Jacobean home of Shakespeare’s daughter, Susannah, offering a glimpse into the domestic life of the Bard’s family.

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

Step into the romantic setting of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage, the childhood home of Shakespeare’s wife, brimming with Elizabethan charm and lush gardens.

Tudor Architecture

Admire the original 16th-century Tudor buildings that line the streets of Stratford, encapsulating the architectural style of Shakespeare’s time.

After immersing yourself in Shakespearean history, you’ll reunite with your driver in the afternoon and journey to Lincoln, where you’ll spend the evening enveloped in the rich tapestry of England’s past.

Day 7: Delving into Lincoln's Rich History

The seventh day of your extensive journey brings you to Lincoln, a city steeped in history, from its Roman origins to its medieval prominence.

Lincoln is renowned for housing one of the rare original copies of the Magna Carta, symbolizing its long-standing historical significance. Tracing its roots back to Roman times and flourishing as a key trading center in the Middle Ages, Lincoln’s strategic importance was underscored by William the Conqueror through the construction of a formidable castle and a grand cathedral, both of which are highlights of today’s guided exploration.

Lincoln Castle Exploration

Embark on a journey through a millennium at Lincoln Castle, where your guide will unveil tales of legends, lore, and historical figures that shaped this fortress.

Magna Carta Vault

Witness the Magna Carta, a cornerstone of English law and liberty, dating back 810 years, alongside the Charter of the Forest from 1217, which was pivotal in molding English society and culture.

Victorian Prison Insight

Discover the Victorian Prison, designed for solitary confinement to promote penitence and deter moral corruption, and listen to the long-silenced voices of its inhabitants.

Heritage Skills Centre

Experience traditional craftsmanship demonstrations, from stained glass creation to silversmithing and stone masonry, offering a glimpse into medieval artisanal skills.

Lincoln Cathedral Tour

Conclude your day at the awe-inspiring Lincoln Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture once celebrated as the world’s tallest building. Uncover the cathedral’s treasures with your guide, including the mischievous Lincoln Imp, a tribute to Alfred Lord Tennyson, and the storied Medieval and Wren Libraries.

Overnight in Lincoln.

Day 8: Discovering the Historic Charm of York

Your journey continues with a 1.5-hour drive to York, a city that encapsulates the essence of Northern England’s rich history and architectural marvels.

Upon reaching York, you’ll be greeted by the awe-inspiring sight of York Minster, the largest cathedral in Northern Europe, surpassing even the grandeur of Lincoln Cathedral. Delve into York’s medieval past by meandering through the Shambles’ quaint narrow lanes, where history melds seamlessly with modernity, and explore the intriguing York Castle Museum.

York Minster Experience

York Minster is a towering testament to Gothic architectural grandeur, with a history of over 800 years.

This cathedral is not only notable for its size but also for housing the UK’s most extensive collection of medieval stained glass, some dating back to the 12th century.

York Castle & Museum Insights

Engage with York’s diverse history through the York Castle Museum’s interactive exhibits, which transport you from Jacobean dining experiences to the Victorian-era Kirkgate shopping street, making history palpable and engaging.

The Shambles Exploration

Stroll through The Shambles, where the beautifully preserved medieval architecture offers a glimpse into life centuries ago.

This picturesque street, rumored to have inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter series, offers a magical blend of history and fantasy, perfect for capturing memorable photographs and experiencing the ambiance of a bygone era.

Day 9: From York to Edinburgh via Newcastle

Set off on a captivating journey from the historic city of York to the vibrant streets of Edinburgh, stopping in Newcastle en route. This day promises a blend of cultural discovery and scenic travel, capturing the diverse spirit of Northern England and Scotland.

Departure from York

Your day begins with a departure from York in the comfort of our private vehicle. As you leave the city’s medieval charm behind, anticipate the dynamic culture and rich history awaiting you in Newcastle.

Newcastle Exploration

Arrive in Newcastle around lunchtime, a city renowned for its pioneering spirit and architectural marvels.

After savoring local culinary delights, delve into Newcastle’s heritage with a guided tour. Highlights include the iconic Millennium Bridge, the historic Newcastle Castle, and the bustling Quayside, where modernity and tradition converge along the River Tyne.

Discover the roots of Newcastle at the ancient Newcastle Castle, which gives the city its name, and wander the Quayside, admiring the blend of historic buildings and contemporary art installations that line the riverbank.

Journey to Edinburgh

After immersing yourself in Newcastle’s vibrant culture, continue your journey northward to Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh. The scenic drive will offer glimpses of the changing landscape, from rolling hills to the rugged coastline, setting the stage for your arrival in this majestic city.

As you reach Edinburgh in the evening, the city’s historic skyline, dominated by Edinburgh Castle and the craggy Arthur’s Seat, welcomes you. The contrast between Edinburgh’s medieval Old Town and the elegant Georgian New Town provides a fitting introduction to this city of contrasts and history.

Day 10: Edinburgh - The Capital of Scotland

Day 10 marks the beginning of your Scottish adventure, focusing on the historical and cultural riches of Edinburgh, Scotland’s esteemed capital.

Edinburgh Castle Tour

Your exploration starts promptly in the morning with a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Ascend to this historic fortress, where a private guided tour awaits.

Delve into the castle’s pivotal role in Scottish history, uncovering tales of the notable figures and legendary events that shaped its storied past.

Stand within the ancient walls of Edinburgh Castle, where centuries of Scottish history unfold. Your guide will illuminate the castle’s strategic significance, its role in national conflicts, and the lives of those who walked its halls, from royals to soldiers.

Holyrood Palace Discovery

Journey down the Royal Mile to the majestic Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of the British monarchy. Here, you’ll explore the opulent state apartments, including those of Mary Queen of Scots, revealing the Palace’s role in Scotland’s regal history and its continued importance in hosting royal and state functions.

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Holyrood Palace, visiting the historic chambers where Scottish royalty once resided. Learn about the Palace’s architectural evolution and significance in hosting distinguished guests and ceremonial events.

Old and New Town Walking Tour

Conclude your day with a leisurely walking tour of Edinburgh’s Old and New Towns. This guided stroll through the city’s contrasting architectural landscapes offers the perfect opportunity to pick up souvenirs and reflect on your Scottish journey.

Your first day in Edinburgh provides a comprehensive introduction to Scotland’s capital, from the commanding presence of Edinburgh Castle to the royal elegance of Holyrood Palace, set against the backdrop of the city’s historic and modern districts.

Day 11: Adventure and Mystery in Edinburgh

Your second morning in Edinburgh blends the thrill of natural beauty, the warmth of Scottish hospitality, and the intrigue of ancient legends, offering a day filled with physical, cultural, and spectral exploration.

Arthur's Seat Hike

After a leisurely lunch, prepare for an invigorating hike to Arthur’s Seat, the dormant volcano that majestically rises above Holyrood Park.

This accessible trek is a highlight for many, offering unmatched panoramic views of Edinburgh’s skyline. From its peak, the stark contrast between the historic Old Town and the elegant New Town unfolds beneath you, providing a unique perspective of the city’s architectural diversity.

Scottish Whisky Tasting

As dusk approaches, immerse yourself in Scotland’s renowned whisky culture with a curated tasting experience.

Join a seasoned whisky specialist as you enter into the intricate world of whisky production and refine your palate as you distinguish between the rich, peaty flavors of Highland malts and the smooth, delicate notes of Lowland grains.

This sensory journey is a must for connoisseurs and novices alike, offering a taste of Scotland’s finest.

Ghost Tour of Edinburgh

As darkness envelops the city, embark on a ghost tour to explore Edinburgh’s darker side. Led by your guide, navigate through dimly lit lanes and eerie graveyards, each with its own harrowing tale.

Listen to stories of infamous criminals, accused witches, and restless spirits that roam the city after dark. Highlights include the spine-tingling Greyfriars Kirkyard and the South Bridge Vaults, where history’s shadows linger in the underground chambers!

Day 12: St Andrews & The Forth Bridges: A Journey Through History and Heritage

Alongside your private driver guide, journey to the town of St Andrews, renowned as the ‘Home of Golf’ and steeped in rich Scottish history. This day combines the ancient sport’s origins with architectural marvels and educational heritage, including a crossing on the iconic Forth Bridges.

Crossing the Forth Road Bridges

Begin your day with a scenic drive across the Forth Road Bridges, marveling at these engineering feats that span the Firth of Forth. Each bridge, with its own design and history, provides a unique perspective on Scotland’s advancements in infrastructure and offers stunning views of the estuary.

The Old Course at St Andrews

Your tour really gets into gear at the Old Course, the cradle of golf, where the sport’s earliest recorded rounds were played in the 15th century.

Wander the historic fairways and greens, soaking in the atmosphere of a place where golfing legends have walked and the game’s traditions have been shaped over centuries.

St Andrews Cathedral: Echoes of the Past

Continue to St Andrews Cathedral, once the epitome of Scotland’s ecclesiastical grandeur. Although now in ruins, the cathedral’s remnants whisper tales of its past splendor.

Climb St Rule’s Tower within the cathedral grounds for a breathtaking panoramic view of Scotland’s rugged east coast, offering a moment of reflection on the country’s spiritual history.

St Andrews University

Your last destination of the day is the University of St Andrews, Scotland’s oldest university and a beacon of learning and culture.

Stroll through its historic buildings and courtyards, feeling the academic pulse that has flowed through the town for centuries.

Return to Edinburgh in the evening.

Day 13: Discovering Scotland's Heartlands: Dunkeld Cathedral, Pitlochry, and Blair Castle

Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Scotland on day thirteen, starting with the serene Dunkeld Cathedral, visiting the picturesque town of Pitlochry, and concluding with the historic Blair Castle.

Blair Castle Exploration

Your day commences with a scenic drive from Edinburgh to Blair Castle, nestled near Blair Atholl. This majestic castle, home to the Clan Murray, is steeped in centuries of history. Enjoy an exclusive tour led by your guide, uncovering the castle’s storied past, architectural evolution, and its pivotal role in Scottish history.

Delve into Blair Castle’s rich heritage, exploring its opulent rooms, extensive grounds, and tales of the Murray Clan. Each corner of the castle offers a glimpse into Scotland’s turbulent and noble past, making it a highlight of your Scottish adventure.

Pitlochry's Victorian Charm

Continue to Pitlochry, renowned for its Victorian architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Dedicate time to wander through this enchanting town, visiting its charming boutiques and local eateries and soaking in the ambiance of a bygone era. Pitlochry serves as a delightful interlude, offering both relaxation and cultural immersion.

Dunkeld Cathedral Visit

Your journey leads you to the tranquil grounds of Dunkeld Cathedral, founded in 1260.

Explore this historic sanctuary and its surrounding gardens, where peace and beauty converge. Though partly in ruins, the cathedral stands as a testament to Scotland’s ecclesiastical heritage, inviting reflection and admiration.

Return to Pitlochry

After a day filled with exploration and discovery, your driver-guide will escort you back to Pitlochry.

Here, you’ll settle into your accommodation, nestled in the heart of one of Scotland’s most picturesque towns, rounding off a day rich in history, beauty, and the enduring spirit of Scotland.

Day 14: Journey to Inverness with a Loch Ness Adventure

As you enter the fourteenth day of your Scottish expedition, prepare for a journey from Pitlochry to Inverness, the revered ‘Capital of the North.’ This leg of your Tour promises a blend of mythical landscapes and historical exploration.

En Route to Loch Ness

Before reaching Inverness, you’ll explore the legendary Loch Ness, renowned for its deep waters and fabled monster.

Exploring Urquhart Castle

Your Loch Ness adventure commences with a visit to the atmospheric ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Perched on the loch’s shores, this 14th-century fortress has witnessed centuries of Scottish history. Once a stronghold, it was deliberately demolished in 1692 to prevent its use by Jacobite rebels.

Wander through the ruins with your guide, delving into the castle’s strategic importance and dramatic tales.

Loch Ness Cruise Experience

After exploring Urquhart Castle, set sail on a private cruise across the mysterious waters of Loch Ness, where perhaps the elusive Nessy may raise her head!

This exclusive boat journey offers breathtaking views and a taste of Scotland with traditional food platters and whisky tastings, enhancing your experience of the Scottish Highlands.

Arrival in Inverness

Following your Loch Ness exploration, your driver-guide will escort you to your accommodation in Inverness.

The city’s vibrant center awaits with a plethora of dining options, inviting you to enjoy an evening meal. Later, explore Inverness’s traditional bars, where you can further indulge in Scotland’s whisky culture or discover a variety of other local beverages.

Day 15: Inverness Discovery Day: Nature and Culture

Spend a day uncovering the treasures around Inverness, away from the well-trodden paths of Loch Ness and castles.

Culloden Battlefield

Begin your day with a visit to the Culloden Battlefield, the site of the last battle fought on British soil in 1746.

This poignant location offers a deep dive into Scottish history, with interactive exhibitions and guided tours that recount the stories of the Jacobite uprising. Wander through the moor, marked by clan stones, and reflect on the events that shaped Scotland’s future.

In addition to the battlefield itself, you can visit The Culloden Visitor Centre for a comprehensive overview of the battle. The centre features immersive displays and artifacts that bring the 18th-century conflict to life.

Clava Cairns

Just a short drive from Culloden, discover the ancient Clava Cairns, a group of Bronze Age burial mounds surrounded by standing stones.

These prehistoric sites offer a fascinating glimpse into Scotland’s early inhabitants and spiritual practices. Your guide will explain the historical and astronomical significance of the cairns, set in a peaceful, picturesque landscape.

Inverness City Centre

Conclude your day with a leisurely exploration of Inverness city center. Stroll along the River Ness, visit the Victorian Market for local crafts and produce, and perhaps enjoy a coffee or afternoon tea in one of the city’s charming cafés.

Our tour planners will consult with you beforehand to recommend the best spots to soak up the atmosphere of this vibrant Highland capital.

Day 16: From Inverness to Oban via Ben Nevis and Glencoe

Today is all about the glorious wild beauty and natural scenery of Scotland! Journey from Inverness, heading south towards Oban, with an adventurous day planned around the majestic Ben Nevis and the breathtaking landscapes of Glencoe.

Ben Nevis Viewing or Hiking Experience

Your day begins with a scenic drive towards Ben Nevis, Britain’s highest peak. Depending on your group’s preference and ability, choose between visiting the Ben Nevis Viewing Platform for panoramic views of the mountain and its surroundings or embarking on a guided hike to experience the mountain’s grandeur up close. Both options offer a unique perspective of the Scottish Highlands’ rugged beauty.

Glencoe Hiking or Driving Route

Continue your journey to Glencoe, known for its dramatic scenery and historical significance. Opt for a guided hike through the valley to fully appreciate the area’s natural beauty, or enjoy a driving route that takes you through the heart of Glencoe, with stops at essential viewpoints.

Your guide will share tales of the valley’s geological formations and the infamous Glencoe Massacre, where on February 13, 1692, members of the MacDonald clan were brutally killed by government forces led by Captain Robert Campbell of Glenlyon due to the MacDonalds’ failure to pledge allegiance to the new monarchs, William and Mary.

Arrival in Oban

Conclude your day with a drive to Oban, a charming coastal town known as the gateway to the Isles. As you settle into Oban, reflect on the day’s adventures through the Highlands, from the towering heights of Ben Nevis to the haunting beauty of Glencoe.

Day 17: Exploring the Isle of Mull & Beyond

It’s time for some Island hopping on a memorable ferry journey from Oban to the enchanting Isle of Mull. This day offers a unique opportunity to delve into the island’s serene beauty and choose between two distinct experiences: the spiritual Isle of Iona or the colorful town of Tobermory.

Isle of Mull Discovery

Upon arriving at the Isle of Mull, enjoy briefly exploring the island’s highlights, setting the stage for your day’s adventure.

Spiritual Journey to the Isle of Iona

Venture to the Isle of Iona, a place of profound tranquility and spiritual significance, home to the historic Iona Abbey, a cornerstone of Gaelic monasticism.

Despite its small population, Iona attracts those seeking peace and spiritual renewal. Tour the ancient abbey, immerse yourself in the island’s serene natural landscapes, and partake in reflective nature walks before returning to Mull in the evening.

Option 2: Vibrant Tobermory Exploration

Alternatively, explore Tobermory, Mull’s bustling main town, known for its picturesque Main Street lined with brightly painted buildings.

Discover the town’s artistic and cultural scene, including a visit to the local whisky distillery and arts center. For breathtaking views, hike the surrounding hills to gaze upon Tobermory and the expanse of the Scottish Inner Hebrides.

Conclude your day with a ferry ride back to Oban before retiring to your accommodation for a well-deserved rest.

Day 18 - Loch Lomond & Flight to Dublin

Join your driver-guide at your accommodation in Oban in the morning for an unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes of Scotland to the vibrant city of Glasgow, followed by a short flight to Dublin, the heart of Ireland.

Loch Lomond Exploration

Your adventure starts with a scenic drive from Oban to the serene shores of Loch Lomond, one of Scotland’s most beautiful and largest freshwater lochs.

Embark on a guided tour around the loch, soaking in the picturesque views, tranquil waters, and the lush greenery of the surrounding Trossachs National Park.

This peaceful setting provides a perfect opportunity to connect with Scotland’s natural beauty.

Journey to Glasgow

After experiencing the tranquility of Loch Lomond, rejoin your driver-guide for the drive to Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, known for its rich industrial history and vibrant cultural scene.

Enjoy a brief exploration of the city’s key sights, from the stunning architecture of the Glasgow Cathedral to the bustling streets of the Merchant City, offering a glimpse into Glasgow’s dynamic urban landscape.

Flight to Dublin

Conclude your day by heading to Glasgow Airport for your short flight to Dublin. As you depart Scotland, reflect on the day’s diverse experiences, from the natural splendor of Loch Lomond to the urban energy of Glasgow.

Upon arrival in Dublin, check into your accommodation and spend the evening at leisure, perhaps exploring the city’s famed pubs and vibrant nightlife.

This day tour seamlessly blends the natural beauty of Scotland with its bustling city life, ending with the warm welcome of Dublin and setting the stage for your Irish adventures.

Day 19: Journey from Dublin to Galway

Experience the vibrant heart of Ireland on Day 19 as you delve into Dublin’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and bustling street life, before making your way to the artistic haven of Galway.

Must-Visit Dublin Highlights

Begin your day in Dublin, where history and modernity intertwine to create a dynamic urban landscape. Enjoy the luxury of a chauffeured tour, complete with engaging narratives about Dublin’s most iconic landmarks and the illustrious personalities that have shaped the city.

O’Connell Street & The General Post Office (GPO): Stand at the site of the 1916 Easter Rising proclamation, a pivotal moment in Irish history.

Trinity College:  Explore Ireland’s oldest university and marvel at the ancient ‘Book of Kells,’ a masterpiece of medieval art.

The Doors of Dublin:  Stroll through the city’s streets to admire the distinctive and colorful doors that lend Dublin its unique charm.

The Guinness Storehouse:  Experience the art of brewing and pour your own pint at this iconic brewery.

Galway Bound

After immersing yourself in the buzz of Dublin, your journey continues westward to Galway. As you traverse the country with your driver-guide, witness the changing landscapes, from the capital’s urban pulse to the Irish countryside’s serene beauty.

By mid-afternoon, you’ll arrive in Galway, a city renowned for its vibrant arts scene, medieval architecture, and coastal charm. Check into your accommodation and take the evening to relax and perhaps explore the city’s lively streets, where music and culture spill out from every pub and venue.

Day 20: Journey to the Cliffs of Moher with Cultural Stops Along the Way

Your day begins with your driver-guide whisking you away from your lodging, setting course for Ireland’s stunning west coast and the iconic Cliffs of Moher, a symbol of Ireland’s natural grandeur.

Kinvara and Dunguire Castle Exploration

The first leg of your journey takes you to the charming fishing village of Kinvara, where the historic Dunguire Castle awaits.

Revel in the castle’s coastal beauty, explore the tower house, and, if timing allows, immerse yourself in a medieval banquet offering an evening of traditional Irish entertainment and fare.

The Burren Adventure

Next, venture into the limestone landscape of The Burren, a geological marvel hosting a vast array of Ireland’s native plant species.

Discover ancient sites like Poulnabrone Dolmen and the historic Celtic crosses of Kilfenora, tracing Ireland’s history from the Mesolithic to the Iron Age with your guide’s insights.

Cliffs of Moher

A visit to the Cliffs of Moher is an awe-inspiring experience, where the raw beauty of Ireland unfolds along the wild Atlantic edge.

Standing over 700 feet at their highest point, these majestic cliffs stretch for 5 miles, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the vast ocean, the Aran Islands, and the rugged Connemara landscapes.

As you stand atop these ancient rock formations, carved by time and the elements, the powerful winds and the sound of crashing waves below evoke a profound sense of wonder and connection to nature.

Journey to Killarney

After a day filled with natural wonders and cultural experiences, continue to Killarney, where you’ll settle into your accommodation for the evening, reflecting on the unforgettable sights and stories of Ireland’s west coast.

Day 21: Exploring the Ring of Kerry

Your final day unfolds with a journey around the Ring of Kerry, a scenic loop that showcases some of Ireland’s most picturesque landscapes and natural wonders.

This iconic route offers a kaleidoscope of breathtaking vistas, from rugged coastlines to lush green hills.

Ring of Kerry Driving Route

As your driver-guide takes you on the Ring of Kerry’s winding roads. Each turn reveals new splendors, immersing you in the raw beauty of Ireland’s southwest.

Molls Gap and Mountain Pass

A highlight of your journey is the ascent through Molls Gap, a mountain pass that offers unparalleled views of the surrounding landscapes.

As you navigate this route, the panoramic sights of Skellig Island come into view. Its striking presence made it famous as a filming location for the Star Wars saga. The vista from Molls Gap provides a moment of awe, inviting you to marvel at the intertwining of nature’s grandeur with cinematic history.

As your journey around the Ring continues, your driver will showcase other notable landmarks and hidden gems along the route. Each stop and viewpoint offers a chance to capture memories and appreciate the diverse beauty of Kerry’s landscapes, from serene lakes to ancient stone forts.

Transfer to Airport

As the day concludes, you have the option to arrange a transfer directly to Dublin or Shannon Airport, marking the end of your journey through Ireland.

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Contact Us About Our 3 Week UK Itinerary

From the historical depth of Edinburgh to the natural wonder of the Cliffs of Moher, each day of our 21-day itinerary promises to immerse you in the very essence of these storied lands.

We invite you to reach out to our team to book your journey or to discuss customizing any aspect of the Tour to suit your preferences perfectly. Whether it’s delving deeper into the highlands of Scotland, exploring more of Ireland’s wild Atlantic Way, or uncovering hidden gems in England’s countryside, we’re dedicated to tailoring your experience to match your dreams.

Contact us today, and let us create a complimentary bespoke itinerary that captures the spirit of your ideal adventure across these historic isles.

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Tours of England, Ireland, & Scotland

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Idyllic countrysides, charming villages, and colorful cities will capture your imagination and admiration of the British Isles. From royal palaces to sheer cliffsides, the range of beauty that these countries have to offer is on full display. Start your remarkable adventure to the British Isles by customizing your England, Ireland, and Scotland tour.

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14  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $6,365

English tea, Scottish lochs, and kissing the Blarney stone. Dramatic coastal drives, evocative medieval castles, and endless green hills. London, Edinburgh, Dublin. Welcome to three of the world’s most distinctive countries. Welcome to a tour of their quirks and idiosyncrasies. Featuring city sights and rural landscapes, this two-week odyssey is all about the contrasts, stretching from regal London to the Cliffs of Moher.

10  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $4,545

Indulge in a love affair across fascinating cliffs and rolling verdant hills, elegant castles and winding medieval lanes during your personalized romantic tour of England, Scotland, and Ireland. Charming villages set the scene for an enchanting exploration. Sophisticated cities unravel the layers of their past among honey-colored stone, soaring towers, and hints of powerful monarchs. Fanciful stories capture your passion in the works of Shakespeare. Guinness highlights the essential flavors and cultural heritage of an entire city. Relax, discover, indulge, and get inspired each day with your unwavering romance. Zicasso offers a variety of England, Ireland, and Scotland tours. Be sure to browse the trips reviews for England, Ireland, and Scotland.

12  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $5,455

Hallowed halls and boisterous bars, Scotch-Irish brogues and the aristocratic lilt of Shakespearean England, England, Scotland, and Ireland are filled with the sights and sounds that remind you of a different, nobler past. Whether you’ve been searching for medieval castles or modern luxury, the whispers of the past or the songs of the present, search no more: it’s all right here.

The fascinating majesty of the past will inspire adults and children alike during your England, Ireland, and Scotland family tour. The sensational history of knights and royalty feeds into captivating folklore. Follow in the footsteps of famous wizards and find an immersive ambiance radiating from mystical monoliths. Your family tour of the United Kingdom and Ireland will boast impressive insight into palaces and armories, artifacts, and medieval lanes.

15  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $6,820

From high tea to High Crosses, from the River Shannon to the River Thames, from Buckingham Palace to Edinburgh Castle: the destinations are filled with the places and the people that are the hallmark to an unforgettable vacation tour of the British Isles. This is the place of perfectly made Irish coffees and the mysteries of Stonehenge, where St. Patrick converted a country and Jane Austen created her most famous characters, where the words of the Bard flow to the melodies of bagpipes. The British Isles is where memories are made, and where time itself seems to stand still.

17  Day Custom Tour

Dynamic pricing from  $7,730

This 17-day tour is handcrafted for senior travelers, with two-night stays in eight unique destinations. It is a journey through Irish coastline, thatched villages, Georgian splendor, Scottish Highlands and islands, beautiful capitals, medieval outposts, and Shakespearean tales. Ireland, Scotland, and England love to showcase their differences from each other. These are three countries distinguished by their cultural nuances, unique histories, and once in a lifetime experiences.

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United kingdom.

Regal. Charming. Scenic.

Comprised of England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, the United Kingdom definitely has dozens of reasons worth leaving home for. Mountains, valleys, hills and dales, forests and gardens, oh and no less than 25 UNESCO World Heritage sites scattered throughout, are but a few. You will find a slew of cathedrals, castles, palaces and country houses spanning history. Centuries of inspiring the world, influencing the arts, and forming natural beauty have developed this land into one great nation.

Destination Must-See's

A world in a city is a common way to describe the metropolis of London, the capital of England. A cultural melting pot of over 230 nationalities, London is the financial, political and cultural capital of the UK. It is booming with activity and bursting with sightseeing treasures. You’ll find historic highlights from the haunting Tower of London to the ornate Buckingham Palace and more modern attractions such as the world-famous Harrods department store and the towering London Eye.

The capital city and second most populous in Scotland, Edinburgh has been recognized for its historic and cultural attractions. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the UK after London. Great shopping, historic architecture and great Scottish whisky are just part of its allure. Its greatest draw is Edinburgh Castle. This sprawling medieval castle and fortress sits atop Castle Rock in the city center, dominating Edinburgh’s skyline.

Giant’s Causeway:

At the foot of the basalt cliffs on the coast of Northern Ireland’s County of Antrim lies the stunning Giant’s Causeway. Travelers flock to this UNESCO World Heritage site to experience the 40,000 massive dark columns rising from the sea. The natural phenomena has sparked legends of giants and magic, but its unique geology points to volcanic activity from over 50 million years ago. The Giant’s Causeway is a beautiful sight and the experience of a lifetime.

Cornwall, a region located on a peninsula in southwest England, is comprised of many different towns and villages that feature beautiful beaches and picturesque coastlines. Bordered by the Celtic Sea and the English Channel, one of its most popular towns is St. Ives. This seaside port town just north of Penzance on the coast of the Celtic Sea is known as the art center of West Cornwall and has a sub-tropical feel and beautiful beaches.

Destination Must-Do's

England’s Lake District:

Lose yourself in the natural beauty of this mountainous region in northwest England dotted with tranquil lakes. One of the picturesque villages in the region is Grasmere, once home of and inspiration to the romantic poet William Wordsworth. Perhaps you will take a sail on one of the lakes and take in the peaceful backdrop of lush green mountains, serene shorelines and pristine calm waters dotted with tiny islands.

Stonehenge:

Walk in the footsteps of so many before you when visiting prehistoric Stonehenge. This mysterious rock formation dates back to the Stone Age and remains one of the world’s most famous sites. Standing in the middle of the most dense complex of Neolithic and Bronze Age monuments in England, Stonehenge is perhaps the most important prehistoric monument in England. The experience of seeing this timeless monument is not to be missed – it will surely be a highlight of your visit.

This large, deep freshwater loch in the Scottish Highlands extends approximately 23 miles southwest of the city of Inverness. Loch Ness is best known for the alleged sightings of the Loch Ness monster. While Loch Ness is not the largest Scottish loch by surface area, it is the largest by volume, with its deepest point at 755 feet. Along the shore, you will find the ruins of Urquhart Castle. This once mighty site rests on the headwaters of Loch Ness and dates back as far as the 13th century.

Prepare to step back in time in the English countryside. The Cotswolds are roughly 25 miles across and 90 miles long, stretching from Stratford-upon-Avon to Bath. The region is known for its small towns and villages with homes made from golden colored Cotswold stone and grass roofs that sit among lush greenery and rolling hills. Stratford-upon-Avon is perhaps its most famous town. Lying along the River Avon, it’s famed for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare, one of the world’s great playwrights. Be sure to make a trip to see the Royal Shakespeare Company and the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.

Expert Advice

Think “go to the right.” It is their natural flow of traffic even when it comes to walking. It is important to not only look both ways when crossing the street, but also when on an escalator, stand to the right. When walking down the street, stay alert and follow the flow – to the right.

Expect to be offered tea, a lot. The British love their tea and not only during afternoon tea, any time for any reason. But you should know there is a “proper” way to drink it. The rules are – sit up straight, do not blow on it, take small sips with your pinky down, and put the cup on the saucer between sips. Now you are prepared to sip away.

Bring a raincoat and umbrella, as it rains one out of three days in the UK. It does vary from region to region, but generally speaking, they are important items to have on hand at all times.

Featured Tours to United Kingdom

Scotland: Land of Lore & Legend

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British Landscapes featuring England, Scotland and Wales

British Landscapes featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

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The Shades of the English Countryside featuring London, Cornwall & The Cotswolds

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British Isles Travel - Taste of Britain & Ireland

14 DAYS / 13 NIGHTS

Day 1London Tour | Tower of London

Day 2independent touring in london, day 3 windsor castle | bath, day 4 cotswold drive | shakespeare's birthplace | liverpool, day 5 lake district | windermere cruise, day 6 edinburgh castle | city tour | scotch whisky experience*.

Day 7 Glasgow City Tour | Ferry to Belfast

Take some time this morning to explore central Belfast on your own. Then learn all about Belfast's shipbuilding history and the ill-fated RMS Titanic at Titanic Belfast where you can experience the history of this ocean liner through interactive displays. In the evening, stop at The Glyde Inn for a drink and dinner with entertainment. (B, D)

Day 9Independent Sightseeing in Dublin

Day 10blarney castle | killarney, day 11sheepdog demonstration | dingle peninsula | irish night, day 12 flying boat museum | cliffs of moher, day 13 dalkey | fitzpatrick castle stay, day 14 tour ends in dublin.

• All local taxes, hotel service charges & handling of one suitcase per person
• Full daily breakfast and many meals*
• Scottish & Irish entertainment
• Transportation (Buses, shuttles & ferries)
• Welcome drinks with your group
• Free Wi-Fi on luxury coaches
• All entrance fees to attractions
• Comprehensive travel itinerary
• Doubletree Victoria  | London (2)  
• Bailrook Hotel | Bath (1)  
• Delta by Marriott Liverpool City Centre | Liverpool (1)  
• Macdonald Houston House Hotel | Edinburgh (2)  
• Holiday Inn Belfast City Centre   | Belfast  (1)  
• Croke  Park Hotel | Dublin (2)  
• The Gleneagle Hotel | Killarney (2)  
• Galmont Hotel | Galway (1)  
• Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel,  Killiney  | Dublin (1)  

Price per person sharing a twin or triple room. ONLY ONE TRIPLE ROOM IS AVAILABLE PER DEPARTURE - BOOK EARLY. Save 10% per person on coach land tour prices if you are 8 & under 17 and traveling with at least one full fare paying passenger. Airfare is available from many cities. Just ask.

Call +1-800-221-2474 9AM - 5PM Mon-Fri Eastern Time Please Email Us For Information

Cancellation Penalties: Airfare up to 100%; Land: Penalties per person apply: 70 days or longer: Forfeiture of deposit 69 - 46 days: 35% per person 45 - 8 days: 45% per person 7 - 1 days: 60% per person, On day of departure: 100% per person Travel Insurance

Price per person sharing a twin or triple room. ONLY ONE TRIPLE ROOM IS AVAILABLE PER DEPARTURE - BOOK EARLY. Save 10% per person on coach land tour prices if you are 8 & under 17 and traveling with at least one full fare paying passenger. Airfare is available from many cities. Just ask. Call +1-800-221-2474 9AM - 5PM Mon-Fri Eastern Time Please Email Us For Information

• 10 Day Small Group Ireland Tour
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2024 Tour Packages:

• All Ireland Tours & Vacations
• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4390 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Britain Tour 10 Days | From €2490 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2890 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1690 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1590 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 6 Days | From €990 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Historic Irish Castle Tour 7 Days | From €1790 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3390 | 2024 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €995 | 2024 | Max 26 ppl.

2025 Tour Packages:

• Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour 18 Days | From €4590 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 14 Days | €3990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour 9 Days | €2490 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 14 Days | From €2990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 10 Days | From €1990 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 8 Days | From €1690 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland 6 Days | From €1090 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour 10 Days | From €2890 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour 13 Days | From €5690 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Ancient Ireland Tour 8 Days | From €3290 | 2025 | Max 8 ppl.
• Discover Northern Ireland 6 Days | From €1090 | 2025 | Max 26 ppl.
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Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour 2024

• Tour highlights
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• What's included

The Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour [2024] currently has a limited number of spaces available.

If you can't find a date that suits you on this tour , be sure to check out the rest of our 2024 and 2025 shared tours of Ireland and Britain .

Tours that might be of interest in 2025:

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Ireland and Scotland

The two-week duration of our Ireland and Scotland Tours allows enough time to absorb the richness of both the Irish and Scottish cultures at a pace that is comfortable for all. From the historic skyline of Edinburgh to the craggy inlets of Kerry's shores, uncover all that Ireland, Northern Ireland and Scotland have to offer on this 14-Day Gaelic adventure.

• €3,690 - €4,390
• 26 guests maximum
• Ireland & Scotland
• Arrival in Edinburgh
• Departure from Dublin

Tour Gallery

Day One includes a visit to Edinburgh. Known the world over as Scotland's Capital, famous for its wonderful museums and galleries.

Palace of Holyroodhouse

Day Two includes a visit to Holyroodhouse Palace. It is famous as the official Scottish residence of the British Royal Family. Located adjacent to the palace is Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat- a volcano that has been extinct for millions of years.

• Edinburgh Castle

Day Two also includes a visit to Edinburgh Castle. Dating from the 12th century Edinburgh Castle has been a fortress, royal palace and prison throughout its unstable past.

• Kingsbarns Distillery Tour

Day Three includes a visit to Kingsbarns Distillery Tour. Located within the majestic kingdom of Fife, Scotland, this tour takes you into the history and heritage of one of Britain's most beloved spirits.

Atholl Palace Hotel

Your base for Day Three and Four is Atholl Palace Hotel. A splendid place to overnight and dine. Dinner is will be served at the Atholl Palace Hotel restaurant, with stunning views over the Tummel Valley.

Cruise Loch Ness

On Day Four you will visit Loch Ness. Enjoy a cruise on this famous loch and experience the sights, wildlife and history of the famous loch and what lies beneath.

On Day Four you will also visit Ben Nevis. You will return to Pitlochry via the rugged terrains Spean Bridge, taking in the backdrop of Britain's highest mountain, Ben Nevis.

Loch Lomond

On Day Five journey to Loch Lomond. Enjoy the Bonnie Banks of Scotland's largest lake. Through the lush pastures of Glencoe Valley.

• Stirling Castle

Day Five will also see you visit Stirling Castle. Sitting atop Castle Hill in the town of Stirling, the castle is a symbol of Scotland's national pride and independence.

• Glasgow Cathedral

On Day Six visit Glasgow Cathedral. Known as the oldest cathedral on mainland Scotland and a rare example of an almost complete church from the 13th century.

The Giant's Causeway

On Day Seven you will visit The Giant's Causeway. One of Northern Ireland's most stunning sights. No amount of photographs can ever do the Giants Causeway justice. 37,000 basalt columns extend from cliffs down into the sea.

• Lough Eske Castle

Day Seven also includes a trip to Lough Eske Castle. This 5-star luxury hotel is located in County Donegal, in the picturesque and tranquil north west of Ireland.

• Belleek Pottery

On Day Eight you will visit Belleek Pottery, one of the oldest potteries in the world, established in 1857.

Day Eight also includes a trip to Drumcliffe, County Sligo, where you can read the epitaph on the grave of author W.B. Yeats.

• Kylemore Abbey

Day Nine brings you to Kylemore Abbey. This is, arguably, Ireland's most beautiful building. Located at the base of Duchruach Mountain on the shores of Lough Pollacappul.

The Cliffs of Moher

Day Ten includes a visit to The Cliffs of Moher. Take the best possible viewpoint to gaze at the Atlantic Ocean. Reaching a staggering 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long.

• Blarney Castle

Day Twelve includes a visit to Blarney Castle. Witness Ireland's most famous Castle and kiss its majestic Blarney Stone... which, if legend is to be believed, will grant you the gift of the gab!

The Rock of Cashel

Day Twelve also includes a journey to Rock of Cashel. Travel to County Tipperary in the heart of the country to visit the Rock of Cashel. Up until the 17th century, the Rock of Cashel was the seat of kings for the province of Munster.

• Guinness Storehouse

Day Thirteen brings you to Guinness Storehouse. Located in the heart of Dublin City, you to see how Ireland's most famous export is crafted into a 'black state of perfection'.

• Christ Church Cathedral

Day Thirteen also includes a visit to Christ Church Cathedral. At almost 1,000 year old this famous cathedral in Dublin City has a storied history. The legendary cathedral crypt dates back to the 12th Century and holds a 14th century copy of the Magna Carta.

EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum

Day Thirteen also see you travel to EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum. Located in Dublin City's docklands, the museum, via cutting-edge interactive displays, explores the history of the mass emigration experienced by Ireland over the past three centuries.

Tour Itinerary

Become immersed in Celtic culture throughout this two-week tour of Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland. The Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour awaits. Click on the days below to find out what adventures you can look forward to on each day of your tour.

Day 1: Arrival (Edinburgh)

Day 1 itinerary.

On arrival in Edinburgh Airport reclaim your baggage and enter the Arrivals Hall. Here, you will meet your professional Tour Director (1 Person). There will be 3 group airport transfers this morning between 7:00 am and 1200 noon. To ensure a smooth start to your tour, it is advisable to aim for an arrival time in Edinburgh Airport before 11:00 am, as clearing immigration and reclaiming baggage typically takes around 1 hour.

Board your luxury air-conditioned coach with WI-FI on board and transfer to the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City .

This afternoon you might like to take a stroll on the streets of Edinburgh. At 6:30 PM this evening all participants will gather for dinner in the hotel restaurant where you will become acquainted with your fellow travellers, the coming days can be discussed at leisure with your Tour Director. Overnight DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City .

For guests arriving in Edinburgh on the 10th and 17th of August, we have included a ticket to the world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo .

Included Today

• Welcome Dinner
• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh

Day 2: Holyrood Palace & Edinburgh Castle

Day 2 itinerary.

After a hearty Scottish breakfast, depart on a panoramic tour of Edinburgh City , with a local Edinburgh Step-on Guide. Visit the Holyrood Palace . Known as the official Scottish residence of the British Royal Family. Adjacent to the palace is Holyrood Park and Arthur's Seat — a volcano that has been extinct for millions of years.

Take a visit to the Scottish Parliament. This modern building was opened in 2004 after decades of Scottish calls for self-determination. Enjoy an afternoon visit to Edinburgh Castle , dating from the 12th century that has been a fortress, royal palace and prison through its turbulent past. It houses the oldest crown jewels of Britain - The Honours of Scotland.

Enjoy the afternoon free as you explore The Royal Mile, the main thoroughfare of medieval Edinburgh. Overnight and Dine in DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City .

• Evening Dinner

Edinburgh City

• Holyrood Palace

Day 3: St. Andrew's & Kingsbarns Distillery Tour

Day 3 itinerary.

Depart for the picturesque town of Pitlochry , nestled amongst the stunning forested hills of Highland Perthshire. Enjoy a Kingsbarns Distillery Tour . Located in the majestic kingdom of Fife, Scotland, this tour takes you into the history and heritage of one of Britain's most celebrated spirits. Travel on via St. Andrew's . Scotland's oldest university town. Also referred to as the Home of Golf, the Old Course at St Andrew's Links is the oldest golf course in the world. Enjoy some free time walking its historic cobbled alleyways.

Continue onto the beautiful burgh of Pitlochry , lying on the River Tummel via Perth.

Travel onto the historic Atholl Palace Hotel for your overnight stay.

Evening free on the extensive grounds of the hotel. Dinner this evening will be served at the Atholl Palace Hotel restaurant with stunning views over the Tummel Valley .

Day 4: Loch Ness Cruise

Day 4 itinerary.

Depart for the Scottish Highlands via Cairngorms National Park and Aviemore.

Visit the Capital of The Highlands- Inverness . Travel along the western shores of Loch Ness to Fort Augustus via the scenic Great Glen.

Enjoy a leisurely cruise on Loch Ness . Here you see the sights, wildlife and history of the famous loch.

Return to Pitlochry via the rugged terrains of Spean Bridge and Dalwhinnie and the backdrop of Ben Nevis, Britain's highest mountain.

Overnight and dine at Atholl Palace Hotel .

• Loch Ness Cruise

Day 5: Stirling Castle

Day 5 itinerary.

Depart for Glasgow via Stirling & the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond .

Travel via Perth to Stirling to visit one of the largest and most important castles in Scotland – Stirling Castle . Travel on via Crianlarich and journey south along the western shores of Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park.

The area is renowned for its natural beauty, history and tranquillity. Stop in the village of Luss before continuing onto Glasgow.

Overnight and dine tonight in Clayton Hotel Glasgow City .

Clayton Hotel Glasgow

Day 6: glasgow city tour & glasgow cathedral, day 6 itinerary.

Depart on a morning tour of Glasgow City . Enjoy a panoramic tour of Glasgow's famous Cathedral Quarter with a local Glasgow Step-on Guide. With its pre-industrial roots, Glasgow is now a modern and vibrant city. The great inventors James Watt and Charles Macintosh were born here, to name a few.

Visit Glasgow Cathedral . A truly rare example of an almost complete 13th century church.

Continue to Cairnryan Ferry Port located in Dumfries and Galloway.

15:30 Wave goodbye to Scotland as you board the ferry at Cairnryan for Belfast City , Northern Ireland.

17:45 Arrive in Belfast Port. Continue on to Belfast City .

Overnight and dine in Europa Hotel Belfast .

Included today:

• Glasgow City Tour
• Europa Hotel Belfast

Day 7: Belfast City Tour & Giant's Causeway

Day 7 itinerary.

This morning, for your tour of Belfast City , you will be joined by a specialised step on local Belfast City Guide to see and hear all about the history of this once troubled city — including the Belfast Murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road and Nationalist Falls Road.

Depart for Donegal via the North Antrim Coast. Visit Giant's Causeway . This prehistoric geological phenomenon is the subject of many myths and legends. There are an estimated 37,000 basalt columns extending from cliffs down into the sea.

Continue onto Donegal. Dinner & Overnight in Lough Eske Castle .

• Irish Breakfast
• Belfast City Tour
• Giant's Causeway

Day 8: Belleek Pottery & Drumcliffe

Day 8 itinerary.

Depart for Galway via Fermanagh and Sligo.

Visit Belleek Pottery , one of the oldest potteries in the world, and has been in operation since 1857.

Continue on via Drumcliffe . Located in County Sligo, this is the picturesque final resting place of W.B. Yeats. Here you can read the epitaph on the grave of one of Ireland's greatest poets.

Continue onto Galway.

Tonight, you will overnight & dine in the Menlo Park Hotel .

Menlo Park Hotel

Day 9: sheepdog demo & kylemore abbey, day 9 itinerary.

Today you will tour the sights of wild Connemara via the villages of Moycullen, Oughterard. At Oughterard, enjoy a Sheepdog Demonstration in Glengowla Mines , where you will also have the opportunity to explore the abandoned silver and lead mine.

Continue through the villages of Maam Cross and Recess, before travelling up the spectacular Inagh Valley with the 12 Bens of Connemara on your left and the Maumturks Mountains on your right as you travel to Kylemore.

You will visit Kylemore Abbey . An historic building nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain, on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul — in the heart of the Connemara Mountains. It is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic buildings.

Travel on via the shores of Killary Fjord . This is Ireland's only fjord and is a Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point, on the Mayo - Galway border, Ireland's only fjord, before crossing into Mayo and continuing on to the village of Cong, the film location of "The Quiet Man" for a brief stop.

Return to Galway City via the shores of Lough Corrib, the largest lake in the Republic of Ireland and is considered by many as the best fishing lake in Europe.

Tonight you will overnight & dine in the Menlo Park Hotel .

Glengowla Mines - Sheepdog Demo

Day 10: the burren & cliffs of moher, day 10 itinerary.

This morning bright and early, your route will take you down the Atlantic seaboard on the west coast of Clare to Killarney Town .

Travel via the famous Galway Bay, Dunguaire Castle and the fishing village of Kinvarra. You will see The Burren , which is Gaelic for rocky land—an apt name for this vast limestone plateau. In the 1640s, Cromwell's surveyor described it as "a savage land, yielding neither water enough to drown a man, nor tree to hang him, nor soil enough to bury".

On the coast, you will visit the Cliffs of Moher . Braced against the ocean, on the coast of County Clare. Here you will stand on the dramatic 702ft (214m) high and 9 miles (14km) long cliffs, a Wild Atlantic Way signature discovery point, to gaze out on the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean.

Continue on via County Limerick to Killarney Town .

Tonight, you will overnight & dine in Dromhall Hotel .

• Cliffs of Moher

Dromhall Hotel

Day 11: the ring of kerry, day 11 itinerary.

This morning, after breakfast, you will set off on the world-famous Ring Of Kerry . It is officially known as the Iveragh Peninsula. You will travel via Killorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Coomakesta Pass with its magnificent views over Derrynane, home of Daniel O' Connell, known as "The Liberator", to Caherdaniel. Travel on via the hamlet of Castlecove, the colourful village of Sneem and on via Moll’s Gap, Ladies View, Killarney National Park and along the Lakes of Killarney to Killarney town.

Take a break at the Blind Piper Pub . Here you will have a traditional Irish Pub Lunch . Located in the village of Caherdaniel, locals and visitors alike have been drinking here since 1865. Who is the Blind Piper, you may ask? The Blind Piper is Mici Cumba O'Sullivan, who was born nearby in 1835 and became one of Ireland's most famous pipers.

Continue via the pretty village of Sneem, Moll's Gap, Ladies View and along the Killarney Lakes to Killarney Town .

Tonight, you will overnight & dine in the family-owned Dromhall Hotel .

Day 12: Blarney Castle & Rock of Cashel

Day 12 itinerary.

This morning after breakfast, you will depart for Dublin, Ireland's capital city via the village of Blarney. Visit Blarney Castle . Built on this site in 1446 by Dermot McCarthy. You will have the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone. You will also have an opportunity to shop at Blarney Woollen Mills , boasting a huge selection of Irish arts, crafts and produce.

Today, visit The Rock of Cashel . Rising dramatically from the grassy plains of county Tipperary. This was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977, before becoming High King of Ireland in 1002.

Continue on to Dublin City.

Overnight and dine in the Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane .

Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane

Day 13: irish emigration museum & guinness storehouse, day 13 itinerary.

After breakfast this morning, you will explore Dublin City .

Visit EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum . Voted, recently, as "Europe's Leading Tourist Attraction", this museum tour tells the story behind the millions of people who fled, or were forced from, Ireland over the past three centuries. Located in Dublin's Docklands.

You will also visit Christ Church Cathedral . Founded by the Viking King Sitric almost 1000 years ago in 1034. The cathedral crypt is one of the largest in the UK and Ireland, dating back to the 12th Century. Here, in the crypt, you can see the mummified remains of the Cat and the Rat which were found in the cathedral organ, and a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta.

Visit Guinness Storehouse . With an address at the world-famous St. James's Gate. Here you will tour the world-renowned brewery and enjoy a perfect complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar — located at the top of a glass tower that commands spectacular views of Dublin City .

Enjoy a farewell dinner and a Traditional Music Night at The Merry Ploughboy Pub—one of Dublin's iconic trad music venues.

Overnight in Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane .

• Merry Ploughboy Dinner and Show

The Guinness Storehouse

Day 14: departure (dublin), day 14: departure.

Today marks the end of the Iconic Tour of Ireland & Scotland.

After a final great Irish breakfast this morning, there will be 3 group airport transfers between 0500 and 1100 to get you to Dublin Airport for your return flight home. The confirmed transfer times will be advised 10 days prior to the tour start date.

Please note when booking flights for this tour: The Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour starts in Edinburgh (Scotland) and ends in Dublin (Ireland).

• Arrive: Edinburgh Airport
• Depart: Dublin Airport

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We are still Ireland's best-reviewed tour operator, with 97.3% five-star reviews.

Heidi Davis

June 2024  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

My husband and I did the 14 day Ireland and Scotland tour. Our tour Director was Damien McKenna who was awesome! He has an amazing depth of knowledge of history, geography, geology, culture, politics and shared it in an interesting way. His experience added much value, 1 example -when we got to the Blarney Castle early before the cruise ships, we stood in line 10 mins. not 90. He knew about good restaurants, experiences and time wasters, what to avoid. He offered the most time efficient way to see sites. He is also a kind, thoughtful person and made me feel comfortable.

Julie Lammers

Our Iconic Ireland & Scotland tour with our guide and driver, Paddy O'Farrell was outstanding! Paddy did such a wonderful job of helping each of our tour members with various things throughout the tour and his knowledge of Irish history was vast. Paddy also had such a wonderful personality and sense of humor! We thoroughly enjoyed this tour - 14 days filled with beautiful scenery and many historical and interesting stops! Thanks to all within this tour company for all the work prior and especially to Paddy for a great experience!

Just returned from the Iconic Ireland - Scotland tour. Our Driver / Guide Damien McKenna made our trip seamless and informative, he was very professional. Only drawback was lots of seat time and limited time at some venues but then again you are seeing 2 countries in as many weeks so its understandable.

Mary Arnoult

Our May 25-June 7 tour of Scotland and Ireland was lead by Paddy O'Farrell. Even though it rained quite a bit and we encountered a number of personal problems Paddy was able to professionally help us out. He actually was the best part of the trip with his humor and patience. Except for 2 hotels which were above average, 6 stars, the other hotels were only 3-4 star. The food in all the hotels except for the above mentioned, was dismally ordinary and the same limited menu was presented to us at each hotel. Also the fast pace and long days were exhausting with no down time or time to shop in any city, except Blarney. The tour does give you an overall view of Scotland and Ireland...seen from a bus. This tour would be good for someone who has limited physical ability. Again, Paddy was incredibly nice and patient and we thank him for his service.

Tammy Fahling

We just returned from the Iconic Ireland & Scotland tour with My Ireland Tours and the entire experience was outstanding! Our guide/driver, Paddy O Farrell was EXCELLENT! His great personality and knowledge of Irish history were amazing! This was our first experience with group travel and we were extremely happy. The 14 day itinerary allows stops at many beautiful and iconic locations. Would highly recommend this tour company.

My husband and I had a great time on the Iconic Ireland & Scotland tour. John Dennany was a great driver/guide. His knowledge of the history and his sense of humor made it quite an entertaining time! John is the best!

We just home from the 14 day tour of Ireland and Scotland. The days were packed full with lots of bus time, but the scenery was amazing. Might not be the best option for people that want some more downtime on their vacations. Enjoyed the evenings to wander around wherever we were spending the night. Our guide Ken was absolutely amazing, patient, funny and full of knowledge. He made the trip worthwhile and was very accommodating (he even arranged for us to see a sheep herding demonstration that was not on the original itinerary). Also, 5 stars for the weather (only had rain rain 3 times in the whole 2 weeks). Highly recommend and feel the value was there.

Olha and Roman Nowakiwsky

May 2024  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

We had a wonderful trip on our first time to Ireland. Catroina and her team were very flexible as we planned our private tour. They gave us an itinerary to start with and we were able to make some adjustments to get in more of what we wanted to see. Our driver, Dave Darby, was THE BEST. We loved his sense of humor and he was extremely accommodating and knowledgeable. By the end of the trip, he was a part of our family and we already miss him.

Emily Coyne

My husband and I just returned from our wonderful Iconic Ireland and Scotland tour. We had a fantastic time! Our tour guide, Paddy O'Farrell, was exceptional. Throughout the fourteen day tour he entertained us with his knowledge and humor, made sure we were well taken care of, and drove our bus through tiny country roads and crowded city streets with considerable skill. We saw so many beautiful and interesting sights. This was our first time visiting the countries on the tour and we got an excellent overview of all three countries. We highly recommend My Ireland Tour.

Caryn Gussin

My husband and I just got back from the 14 day tour of Scotland and Ireland. Our guide/driver was Paddy O'Farrell. I can't say enough good thing about this tour and him. From the very beginning of the trip they both made it very clear that our safety, comfort, and happiness was very important to them. The bus was always clean and comfortable with plenty of room to spread out. Paddy told us all about the history of where we were at and how people lived. He had a great sense of humor and everyone enjoyed themselves. All the places we stayed were wonderful and the meal choices were excellent. Atholl Palace in Pitlochry, Scotland was my favorite. The decor was very warm and inviting and the service was exceptional. My Ireland Tour made everything so easy for us. We booked this tour a year in advance and all questions were done by email. I got quick responses the very next day. Our requests were always kept in mind. I can't say enough about this company. I would not hesitate to go with them again.

A perfect tour starting in Edinburgh, Scotland and ending 14 days later in Dublin, Ireland. Seeing all the highlights along the way. Castles, Museums, historic sites, magical vistas. All while our tour guide, Paddy O’Farrell, provided exceptional historical narratives, pointed out sites, provided options and offered up lots of laughs and fun. We travel a lot and he was, by far, the best at what he does. We all felt welcomed and as if he was taking us along on a family jaunt. Highly suggest you do this and ask for him. You will not be disappointed.

Robert Ohsfeldt

We completed the 2-week tour of Scotland and Ireland during late April/early May. Pat, our driver and frequent tour guide throughout the entire trip, was absolutely fantastic. The quality of the hotels generally was good, though many did not have air conditioning, which was not an issue in April/May but might be a problem in the summer. The hotels in more rural areas were very isolated but the hotels in cities were centrally located, which made it easy to get out and see the city. The overall pace of the tour was on the energetic side with a full itinerary every day and no 'additional fee' optional activities. A minor negative for us was that we would have preferred to spend more time in Glasgow and Belfast (the visit to Belfast was especially brief). It was convenient to always have breakfast and dinner at the hotels included as part of the tour, but it would have been nice to venture to a local restaurant for dinner at least occasionally. Despite these suggestions for improvement, overall the tour was a very enjoyable experience

Helen Huber

We just returned from our Iconic Scotland and Ireland Tour. It was wonderful! My husband and I both think this is the best trip we have ever had. My Ireland Tour set up a great itinerary; and they made the planning and arrangements so easy. Our driver/guide Pat was the best. His kindness, knowledge, humor, storytelling and caring for each of us was so evident the entire trip, and of course very much appreciated. The small group we traveled with was really great and we plan on continuing friendships with people we met. It was a bucket list item checked off, and we have such great memories from this trip that will be with us forever. We would highly recommend My Ireland Tour.

Deborah Roberts

October 2023  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

We (my two adult grandchildren along with myself) had a wonderful time on the Scotland-Ireland tour. Paddy was a very good tour guide as well as an excellent bus driver! We learned a great amount of history of both countries from him on the tour as well about the country side & cities we visited! The stay in the hotels, palaces & castles were grand. The food superb! The last evenings entertainment was very delightful! Most enjoyable 14 day tour! Thank you!

Mary Takacs

My Husband and Took the Ireland/Scotland 2 weeks trip with Paddy O’Farrell it was everything we thought it would be and more. I have already shared with a coworkers and one is looking into it for next year. Our weather was great Paddy was so informative and proud of his heritage. Food and hotel were great. Thank you for such a memorable vacation.

Bill Morrison

The 14 day Scotland/Ireland tour was incredible and exceeded all of our expectations. Our driver guide Paddy was knowledgeable, entertaining, and accommodating. I’d highly recommend this tour.

Tammy Trombley Mixer

My wife and I just returned from a 14 day tour of Scotland and Ireland with My Ireland Tours. Our driver was Paddy O’Farrell and you could only be lucky enough to get him as your guide/ driver. This was the trip of lifetime and Paddy made the trip so much more. His knowledge is amazing and his driving was 100% on point. He was personal and funny , and really made the trip that much better. My Ireland Tours was professional and worth every penny we spent.

Bert Christensen

Wow! We we just returned from the 14 day for Ireland experience tour. It was amazing! Our Tour Guide, Shephard, Information Manager, comedian, and Professional - was Mr. Eamonn Broderick. Our group came together and meshed from the first night we met. We encouraged each other and together, enjoyed each stop on this fabulous and phenomenal tour experience. My wife celebrated her 70th birthday on this trip, and My Ireland Tours connected with each Hotel along the way to make it a special experience. They had a card and chocolates in the every room. The weather cooperated too, but it was our driver, Eamonn Broderick, who brought the whole thing together and made every opportunity special.

Anja Hoffmann

Loved the entire 14 day Scotland/Ireland Tour. Our driver/tour guide Paddy O’Farrell made the whole experience that much better. We felt very safe with his superior driving skills and appreciated the knowledge and love he shared about both countries. The itinerary was rich in its history of both countries as well as the beauty of the locations we stopped in. The 26 person group was a bonus, plenty of room on the bus. Hotels/Castles/Palaces were beautiful. Our first tour and it was something we’ll never forget. Thank you!Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

Sherry Leads

We did the Scotland and Ireland 14 day tour with Pat as our tour guide. It was fantastic. Pat at one point had to pass another bus and there was 2 inches between his side mirror and the other bus. Pat did not hesitate and its impressive with how little room there is on the road and how Pat negotiated it effortlessly every time. I would not want to drive in Europe . I appreciated the fact that I could see the country and relax in a roomy bus and I didn't have to rely on a garmin. Also a couple of the places we stayed were 5 star hotel quality. The fact that two of your meals a day are taken care of is an added bonus. Thanks for a grand tour of my ancestoral homeland.

Maureen Savoie

October 2023 Scotland Ireland Tour Words cannot do justice to Pat who was our driver and guide, or to the wonderful new friends we made on this 13 day tour. Pat was a wealth of knowledge and saw to our every need. The group felt like family after only a few days. This was a dream come true. So much to see, and do. Loved Edinburgh, Inverness, St. Andrew, our nights in the castles as well as our days at Cliffs of Moher and Giants Causeway. Too many high points to list them all. I can't wait to go back.

Maryann Hungarter

We chose the Scotland/Ireland tour and it was more than incredible. Paddy was our tour guide, he was so knowledgeable, funny and somehow kept all 26 of us tourists on schedule. We went to all of our scheduled destinations as well as a couple “off the beaten path” stops that only added to an already amazing trip. We saw more beauty and history than we ever could have imagined. If you get the opportunity to tour Ireland (and Scotland) with My Ireland Tour, you will not be disappointed. I highly recommend and hope to go back again as well with one of their other packages. TRIP OF A LIFETIME!

Dom Blasioli

The 14 day Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour was simply incredible. The itinerary was filled with historical landmarks and nightly accommodations at 4-5 star hotels or castles. What enhanced the 2 weeks was our Guide-Driver Paddy O'Farrell as he moved throughout Scotland and Ireland, maintaining a schedule that ensured we had time for meals, made all our stops on time and arrived at our hotels in time for happy hour and dinner. Paddy also mentioned many historical facts and pointed out key landmarks. Highlights in Scotland included: The Edinburgh Castle, The Royal Mile and the Holyrood Palace. We stopped for photo opts at the bridge at St. Andrews, cruised on Loch Ness and visited Sterling Castle. After taking a ferry ride to Dublin, we enjoyed the majesty of the Ireland landscapes. Key points of interest were the Cliffs of Moher, the Giant's Causeway, then stopping in Galway for a sheepdog demo and the Glengowla Mines. Paddy stopped at Pat Cohan's bar where we had a beer and took photos of this iconic bar from 'The Quiet Man'. We visited the Blarney Castle where we kissed the Blarney stone and then spent time at the Blarney Woollen Mills. The trip would not have been complete without a few hours at the Guinness Storehouse and finally a dinner and traditional Irish music at the Merry Ploughboy Pub. Truly a memorable vacation which enlightened all of us about the history and culture of Scotland and Ireland plus incredible pictures to remember all these great moments. I highly recommend this tour and, if you're lucky, you'll get Paddy O'Farrell as your guide.

Mary Martin

My husband and I went on the Iconic Scotland and Ireland tour with My Ireland Tours. It was a total class act. The hotels and the food were fantastic. Both Scotland and Ireland are majestically beautiful. We saw so many wonderful sites. Everything would have been just places on a map without our Driver/Tour Guide Paddy O' Farrell. With Paddy at the helm we were in great hands. He was the ultimate professional! Paddy was very knowledgeable and educational about both Scotland and the Emerald Isle. Our tour bus traveled many miles along the narrow winding roads of both countries. Paddy's driving skills were magnificent. He made time for us to see many places not included on the tour. He always took great care of us all.

Tim O'Leary

My wife and I returned from a 14 day tour of Scotland and Ireland with John Dennany and we are just amazed at the level of service, courtesy and how much can be crammed into 14 days! John was on the spot from day one at the airport right up to day 14 dropping us off again. His entire focus was on making each guest feel like it was their tour. His sense of humor and Irish lilt was very welcome as he explained history, geography and told jokes. He made every effort to accommodate special requests and always found a pub when it was necessary. Even rest room stops offered something to see. I will never forget John and will heartily recommend My Irish Tours to anyone planning to visit Ireland.

Yvette Robinson

I would highly recommend this tour company. Communication was excellent from the start. We did the 14 day Scotland Ireland tour and it was great. The bus was very comfortable and Pat our driver and guide was fantastic, he really made our trip special. His range of knowledge was amazing and he was always available to make sure everything went smoothly. Our accommodations were good and we even stayed one night in a castle. It was so nice not to have the worry of planning and driving. I would definitely recommend My Ireland Tours to everyone.

Harry Covely

Our Scotland and Ireland tour was wonderful. Beginning with our driver picking us up at the airport, everything went as scheduled. John Dennany was very courteous, helpful and knowledgeable during the entire trip. Accommodations were comfortable and the sightseeing was exemplary. Highly recommend this tour company. If you get this guide on your trip you will have a lot of fun and enjoy your time.

Martha Wade

I just returned from the 14-Day Iconic Ireland and Scotland tour with My Ireland Tours and can't speak more highly of this tour and the company itself. From the time I scheduled the tour a year ago until the last moment when the tour ended and I was headed home on the plane, every step was well organized with helpful staff all along the way. The tour itself exceeded all my expectations. All the accomodations were wonderful. Our guide/driver, John Dennany, made a wonderful trip even more amazing. John went out of his way to ensure that each person on our tour enjoyed themselves even ensuring that personal requests were met such as extra stops along the way to visit areas that were significant to the guests family heritage. John took gloomy weather days and turned them into a fun adventure in order to ensure each day was enjoyable for the whole group. When there was a medical emergency within our tour group John again ensured that the guest was first priorty while still ensuring that the rest of the group did not miss out on anything that was scheduled. Even though I just returned, I am already looking at booking another trip with My Ireland Tours. I would highly recommend this tour company to anyone and also would suggest requesting John Dennany as your guide/drive...you will not be disappointed.

Jan Scotland

September 2023  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

Can highly recommend this tour company. Communication was excellent from the start. We did the 14 day Scotland Ireland tour and it was great. The bus was very comfortable and Pat our driver and guide was fantastic. His range of knowledge was amazing and he was always available to make sure everything went smoothly. Our accomodation was always very nice, staying one night in a castle was amazing. The food overall was good and the last night we attended a show and dinner which was very enjoyable. The only negative was the breakfasts at the hotel in Edinburgh were a bit chaotic. Taking the tour took all the stress out of driving. Thank you Pat and Shannon for a great holiday.

Naheed Hanif

I was the only solo traveler to a fun group! The guide, Paddy, was absolutely grand! How he remembers all that information, is unbelievable. He definitely makes sure you're ok and treats you like family. The Scotland- Ireland tour was enough to see the highlights of both countries. Although, I wish we were in Dublin for one more day because there wasn't enough time to walk around due to the itinerary. Certain things could have been cut short. I highly recommend this tour overall and would do it again. Some of us would eat outside the hotel for a better feel of the city and for better food options. This really was a great trip.

Kayla Metscher

We did the 14 day Ireland and Scotland tour and it was absolutely perfect. I can't say enough good things about our driver/guide Paddy. He really made the experience so special. The best driver around hands down! The amount of history we learned from him just while driving in the coach from place to place was incredible. I can't imagine trying to do that trip on our own or with any other tour company. The sights and stops were great, the hotels were perfect and locations were convenient, and the breakfast and dinner options were sufficient. It was truly an unforgettable experience! Thank you so much Paddy, and My Ireland Tour!

Donna Young

My Ireland Tour group is fantastic! My husband and I took a 14 day tour to Scotland and Ireland. Paddy was an excellent guide and driver who went beyond our expectations! The tour gave us a great overview of the two countries plus the scenery out in the countryside was spectacular! We would recommend My Ireland Tour to everyone! Thanks for everything you did to make our trip wonderful!

Vicky Stone-Gale

My husband and I just returned from the 14 day Scotland and Ireland tour and if was a fantastic vacation for us. We had never been overseas before and were nervous but our tour driver, Colm, made our trip go smoothly and without incident. We saw places we would have never known to go if we would have been on our own. The entire itinerary was full and we were moving quickly to see everything, but every place we went was well worth the drive. There were times we had to travel 2 hours between spots but Colm made the trip fun and told us stories and gave us so much history. He was extremely knowledgeable. From the time we left Edinburgh until we arrived in Dublin, we had such an amazing experience visiting so many sites. The Lough Eske castle was truly the most beautiful place to stay but the Menlo hotel was not my favorite at all. We were exhausted at the end of our trip but we saw everything we wanted to and more. I highly recommend this company. From the booking until the end it went off without a hitch. Shannon and the team answered emails and questions immediately. I would definitely travel with them again. Thank you for a great vacation!

We just finished the 14 day Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour. Our driver/guide, Pat, was outstanding! He was knowledgeable, friendly, professional, helpful, and patient. You can tell My Ireland Tours has crafted an excellent itinerary that is well planned. Several fantastic hotels were a big plus on this trip, especially the overnight at Lough Eske Castle. My wife and I will definitely plan another trip with My Ireland Tours in the future!

Our 14-day Scotland-Ireland tour experience with My Ireland Tours not only met but exceeded all our expectations. This was due in large part to our driver/tour guide, Pat Prendergast, who was fabulous. We flew into Edinburgh a few days early to golf at St. Andrews and to spend time at the Fringe Festival – as well as to get over any jet-lag. Pat picked up our party of seven from our AirBnb on Saturday morning to take us to the Doubletree, where we started off with an introductory dinner and then the Edinburgh Royal Tattoo, which was an incredible way to start off our tour. The 14-day itinerary was aggressive, but we covered a lot of the highlights in both countries. There was also enough free space on the bus to allow people to spread out a little, and the bathroom stops were timed perfectly. Pat was not only an excellent driver, but engaging and informative. He was flexible should participants want to schedule side trips or need a “shopping/rest” day. Thank you Pat and My Ireland Tours for an incredible vacation!

Sandy Hicks

August 2023  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

This tour was everything and more than what was described when I made my decision to join it! The breathtaking scenery, landmarks, villages, cities, nice hotels, and food were above any expectations I may have had. Our tour guide/driver, Colm Marshall, with his vast knowledge of the history , geography, and folklore truly made our journey a trip of a lifetime! Colm's daily humor and passion for the country helped to give us a depth to what we were seeing and kept us in a sensory overload. The small group bonded quickly and since returning have shared with each other pictures of our adventure! If you are hesitating in any way about making a decision to join an My Ireland Tour please don't! I promise you won't be disappointed!

Dena Naumoff

I just returned from a solo trip to Ireland and Scotland. I couldn't have had a better group of people on my tour. Everyone was friendly and inclusive. I never felt alone. Our driver/guide, Colm, was informative and humorous. He never lost our attention. He made every place interesting. And as the roads were narrow and winding, he was an excellent driver, never putting us at risk. He truly is the best. From the moment I contacted My Ireland Tour, the staff was helpful and considerate of my concerns about booking solo. They were always accessible and made the booking process easy. As to the trip itself, we went to some of the most fascinating sites in Scotland and Ireland, staying at 4 star hotels and castles. Every meal at every place we stayed was great. Our rooms were spacious and extremely clean, with the front desks being accommodating if anything was needed. I highly recommend using My Ireland Tour for any travel you desire in Ireland and Scotland. And try to get Colm as your driver/guide. You won't be disappointed.

Linda Harper

This is a great tour company. We did the 14 day Iconic Scotland-Ireland tour with Colm Marshall as our guide. Colm was knowledgeable, fun and an all around great person to lead us on this adventure. The small group atmosphere made it very easy to get to know and bond with the others. (In fact, we have started a Facebook group, My Ireland Tour, Aug5-18,3023, where we can all share our experiences.) The itinerary was filled with great sites and we were left with some free time to explore on our own. We left lots to see behind for another adventure as seeing 2 countries in 2 weeks is quite an undertaking. The accommodations we great and meals were typical for the regions. I would certainly 100% recommend “My Ireland Tours” to anyone who wants a great introduction to Scotland/Ireland.

Michael Hughes

It's 2023 and we've just returned from our FOURTH tour with My Ireland Tour! I can't think of a better testimonial for this amazing tour company than to say that we've come back, four times now, to enjoy the tours that they provide. This year we did the 14 day Scotland / Ireland tour. The driver / guide, Pat, was absolutely phenomenal! We thoroughly enjoyed his knowledge and expertise. The itinerary was exceptionally well planned and equally well executed. Just the right pace to see everything there is to see without being hectic or hurried. Fantastic hotels were a big plus on this trip, especially the overnight castle stay. To put it very simply, My Ireland Tour is the top touring company for your visit to Ireland.

Jennifer Hedmark

We took the 14 day Scotland and Ireland tour. From our first communication with Keith , we were off to a good start. We can't say enough about Ken O'connell our tour guide. He was both funny, and a wealth of knowledge. He was able to tell us so much about the countries, and all the stops we made in between! We know Ken worked hard but he made it look easy, he is very good at his job! I will not hesitate to recommend My Ireland Tour to anyone!!!! I would love to do another tour with them in the future!

julie kubricky

July 2023  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

I just returned from the Iconic Scotland and Ireland tour and it surpassed all my expectations! Paddy O'Farrell was the best guide. He was personable, funny and told great stories of Scotland and Ireland history and legends. Several times Paddy added extra stops that were not on the itinerary. We stayed in amazing places and saw so much of these beautiful countries. We also had plenty of time to explore on our own. I would love to return again for another tour with My Ireland Tours.

I just took the 14 day Iconic Ireland and Scotland tour with Paddy O'Farrell. Paddy was an excellent tour guide, a very safe driver, always giving us great recommendations and keeping us safe. He was extremely knowledgeable and taught us so much history, was very funny and did a great job herding us and keeping us on schedule. I would recommend this company to anyone who is looking to take a tour of Scotland or Ireland. Wonderful, wonderful memories!! Thank you My Ireland Tour and Paddy!

My wife and I had what has got to be one of the best trips of our lifetime with My Ireland Tours, the Iconic Ireland and Scotland 14 day tour. Becky has always been interested in the monarchy of the U.K. What a treat to have walked where Mary Queen of Scots and other royals walked. We even had lunch in a cute little restaurant where Prince William had his first date, and according to the restaurant manager we spoke to, numerous subsequent dates, with Princess Kate. The magnificence of the beautiful cathedrals we visited along with the many castles and palaces helped to make this a real trip of a lifetime. Thankfully we were told early on In Edinburgh that touching the noise of the statue of Greyfriar's Bobby would bring good luck, because doing so helped us to have wonderful weather for most of the trip. Pat our tour guide/driver was so much more than that. Yes, he was extremely knowledgeable, and constantly kept us informed about the history and geology of the areas we visited, but he also went out of his way to make sure that our trip was as special as it could possibly be. He became a good friend, and my wife even told me the other day that she misses him. Thanks Pat, for all you did to make this a truly wonderful trip. Hal and Becky Gersch.

Lisa Lawson

We are back from a 14 day Scotland and Ireland tour and our entire family loved it! The itinerary was fabulous and we received top notch service from everyone at MIT. We had problems with airline cancellations and everyone was so helpful trying to help us rearrange our schedules in the best way possible to join the tour. Our tour guide, Pat, was the best! We would highly recommend this tour and My Ireland Tours to anyone thinking about traveling to Scotland and Ireland.

Peggy Thiel

Thoroughly enjoyed our 14 day tour of Scotland and Ireland with Paddy O'Farrell as our guide. He was very knowledgeable, friendly and efficient. Everything was taken care of in terms of hotels, luggage, and meals. We loved all the fun stops we made along the way, and of course, the beautiful scenery of both countries. Would highly recommend anyone!

Lisa Greene

June 2023  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

Ben was our tour guide and he was great. He told stories, explained alot about different events in Ireland's history, even sang songs! It was a very busy tour with not much down time, but we got the opportunity to see many areas of Ireland that we probably wouldn't have been able to see on our own. We started in Dublin, went to the EPIC Immigration Museum, the Guinness Brewery, and got to walk around Dublin. We ate at a restaurant called The Church, on our own, and I highly recommend it. They play traditional Irish Music every night and have Irish Step Dancers who were amazing to watch. Staying in Limerick was very nice. I got some photos of the sunset over the River Shannon at 9:30 at night, which was surreal. The sun sets around 8:30 on Cape Cod this time of year. Driving through the country side was beautiful. You see cows, cows, and more cows! But, the different way of life is eye opening! We drove through the Ring of Kerry. We stopped at a little village called Waterville which was beautiful. Killarney was nice also. We only got to spend 45 minutes in Galway City which was a bit of a disappointment. We would have wanted more time there. The Blarney Castle was amazing! And, as gross as it is, you HAVE TO kiss the Blarney Stone while you're there! The grounds at the castle were beautifully manicured and taken care of. The shopping at the Woolen Mills is a MUST! All in all it was a great trip. If you want to see many different spots and areas of the country, this is the way to do it. I do recommend Dramamine for anyone who gets even some motion sickness as being on the bus can be cumbersome and make you a little woozy. Ben was a great tour guide and a really nice guy. I do recommend this trip for groups of adults and teenagers (we had 5 with us, and they enjoyed it)!

Susan Rentz

A good friend and I just returned from a wonderful 14-day journey through Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland with My Ireland Tours. Our tour guide and driver, Paddy O'Farrell, was an excellent driver, making us feel very safe. Beyond that, he was so knowledgeable about the history and culture of the people of Scotland and Ireland, making the trip entertaining. Breakfast and dinner at our hotels were always included, as well as a lunch or two. All were delicious. The hotels were at least 4-star, and they provided excellent, friendly service. We always felt welcome in these beautiful countries. We were also lucky to travel with a very congenial group of people from different parts of the United States. I can highly recommend a trip to Scotland and Ireland as well as traveling with this excellent company, My Ireland Tours.

My wife and I really enjoyed our tour of Scotland, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. So much history and beautiful scenery. Our tour guide/driver, Paddy, did a superb job driving, explaining all the sights, and giving us insight into the history of Ireland and Scotland. New friends were made with the group of 26 that was on the tour. We highly recommend and appreciate My Ireland Tours.

Joyce Lipkin

We just returned home from a 2 week Iconic Scotland and Ireland tour, expertly guided by Paddy O'Farrell, our driver as well. This tour included the most desired stops in both countries. Paddy led us to some of the most beautiful cities and small towns, always telling us about the history of the countries as we drove along. He was full of stories and jokes to pass the time while we were driving. He played music on the bus when he sensed it was 'nap time' for us! Being on a small tour of only 24 made travelling easier than being with a larger group. All strangers at the outset, our group meshed quite quickly. My Ireland Tour made it so easy to make travel plans - Once booked all arrangements were made for hotels, meals, travel vouchers, and anything else needed for this 2 week tour. At every hotel stop I would like to acknowledge all of the luggage porters who delivered our bags to us in a very timely fashion, and thanks to Paddy for loading the bus at each stop and making sure all luggage was accounted for. We never had to worry about a thing! I highly recommend My Ireland Tour and highly recommend Paddy O'Farrell as a fabulous, careful driver and very knowledgeable guide. FIVE STARS

Denise Close

The 14-day tour of Scotland and Ireland was an incredible experience! The booking was easy and Shauni answered so many questions and kept in contact with updates all through the process. Our driver, Harry Fisher, is a wealth of knowledge, a great driver, and he made sure everyone was safe and comfortable. We lucked out with a super fun group which made stops, bus time, and after dinner just a blast! The itinerary for this trip as a perfect mix of castles, churches, landmarks, landscape, experiences (super cool sheep dog demonstration, Kingsbarns Distillery, chocolate making and Guinness Storehouse, etc). Well done My Ireland Tours! As Harry says, 'It's better to be looking at it than looking for it.' Book with My Ireland Tours!

Just completed the 14 Day Scotland & Ireland Tour with my wife. 5 star, absolutely fantastic trip. Our Tour Guid, Harry Fisher was outstanding! He is very detailed and ensured nothing was left unattended. Harry is an excellent driver and provided all the history and facts that added to the trip experience. My Irelands tour is the best, better than expected for our first tour. Smaller 26 person group was perfect. The entire group came together, became friends and hung out. Enthusiastically recommended.

Took the Iconic 14 day Scotland/Ireland tour in May with with our personal leprechaun Paddy O'Farrell who was our guide and driver. What a fantastic whirlwind of activity! With only 26 folks on the motorcoach, we had plenty of room to spread out since each day included hours of traveling and sightseeing but Paddy maneuvered that huge bus like a warm knife through butter since many of the ancient picturesque and winding roads we traveled were surely not meant for large vehicles or even two lanes!! Paddy alerted us with tidbits of interesting information before encountering sites along the road but he was also a font of historical knowledge, folklore, regional information, stories, suggestions for our free time and all of it interspersed with respect and humor! The itinerary was marvelous but the scenery was out of this world - tiny towns, sheep, majestic ocean/sea views, sheep, castles, abbeys, antiquated ruins, local talent and more sheep. Some hotels were within city limits, allowing us to wander and others were tucked away in wonderlands of beauty but the highlight was spending one night in a castle guarded by a dragon! The culture, the food, the beverages and the people of Scotland and Ireland have made this a trip of a lifetime for us and we will sing the praises of My Ireland Tour forever. Thank you!

Sondra Gordon

The adventure of the Scotland-Ireland 14 day tour, a group of 26, who became 'family', under the watchful and loving care of our amazing guide-driver, Paddy O'Farrell, was a daily joy of discovery, learning, experiencing and enjoying! As we wended our way from Edinburgh, Scotland, to Northern Ireland and then to the Republic of Ireland, there was ongoing history and information communicated by Paddy, with amazing knowledge and insight, making the period of 500 A.D. to the present meaningful by interjecting literary references, politics, and his personal reflections. His love of history and his desire to make sure that we shared his respect and regard for these countries was constant. Our hotels were 4 star, except for Lough Eske Castle, which defied the star categorization by setting its own standard. It was as if we had arrived at 'Downton Abbey', with accommodations fit for Kings and Queens, and a dinner service to match! Since all of the other hotels were chosen to be 'in town', and central, and, unlike most tours, we were able to spend more than just one night in one location. This allowed for a more restful period while never missing any sightseeing destinations. It was one of the reasons I chose to travel with My Ireland Tours. I was not disappointed! And whenever there was something special in an area, a Celtic show, a special photo view, or being at the right place, at the right time, Paddy made sure 'we were there'. He was the 'sheep dog' making sure that his flock were safe, rescuing the occasional strays with good humor and caring. While we toured, or before leaving in the morning, Paddy made sure that the bus was cleaned and windows sparkling, so we could enjoy the magnificent views. He had a personal greeting and conversation for each of us. His close attention to our special need person's requirements was always primary, warm and admirable. 500 photos later, it was time to say farewell to fellow travelers, especially difficult was finding the words to adequately express the admiration and appreciation of our unique, Paddy. I know that everyone thinks that they have had the best tour director, but, we really did!!! Thank you Paddy!

Mimi Limbach

My husband, George, and I, had a fantastic experience on the Iconic Scotland and Ireland tour. Everything was so well organized. The hotels were clean and comfortable, the staff gracious and friendly. Our driver, Paddy O'Farrell, was extremely knowledgeable about the history of Scotland and Ireland. I was so impressed by the amount of historical knowledge he shared with us, our cup was overflowing with stories, facts and details that until then were unknown to us. George and I are so grateful we had the opportunity to participate in this adventure...to make new friends, appreciate the struggle and beauty of both countries and to leave with a deeper understanding of the those who went before.

Karen Stanton

May 2023  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

Enjoyed an amazing vacation with My Ireland Tour on their Iconic Scotland and Ireland Tour! Our tour guide, Paddy O'Farrell, was incredibly knowledgeable and went above and beyond to ensure everyone had the best time ever. Would definitely recommend!!

kimberly hollopeter

We took a two week tour seeing both Scotland and Ireland, spending about a week in each. Patty was our driver and guide and was absolutely AMAZING. He kept us on track, answered hundreds of questions, got us to all of the sites and made sure we had everything we needed. We stayed in 8 different hotels and our luggage was delivered to our room at each hotel. One of the best parts of this tour is that the bus was purposely not full. We almost had enough room for everyone to have their own seat and being on the bus for long amounts of time that was important to me. Being on this tour was a great way to visit places like Edinburgh, castles, palaces, abbeys, cemeteries, a distillery, Loch Ness, Glasgow, Belfast, Giant's Causeway, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, Blarney Castle, and Dublin. This trip is go go go and not for the faint of heart, but it was amazing and I do not regret going on this tour for one minute. Well worth the price. Just to note, many of the hotels did not have AC and I did get a little tired of the hotel food and eating later at night. With that said, I would highly recommend this tour.

I just returned from the 14 day Scotland/Ireland tour. It was an amazing experience and I learned so much about so many different places. My favorite place of the trip was probably the two days we spent in Edinburgh. We were taken on tours, but we also had free time to explore on our own and we were able to see other sights not on the tour by doing this. The rest of the tour was packed with so many things which I wanted to see that there was very little free time to add additional preferences to our stops. Paddy was an amazing tour guide and driver. He was informative and knowledgeable and was able to fill in gaps that were often left out by the step-on guides that we had. One thing to keep in mind if you have food sensitivities or allergies, be very careful and check with the chef in each hotel. One thing I would change if I could would be the time spent eating. It took 1 1/2 to 2 hours to eat dinner with the group as they spread out starters, entrees, and dessert over a long period of time. I felt we could have condensed that and given us more free time to explore. We did decide to skip a few of the provided meals in some of the towns so that we could explore and eat on our own and that was fun. Overall an amazing experience.

Sarah Bonsall

From start to finish our Scotland/Ireland tour was absolutely fantastic. Our driver Paddy went above and beyond to make our trip memorable. I recommend this tour to anyone who wants to see Scotland and Ireland!

Marisa Beasley

I just got back from a 14 day tour of Scotland, No. Ireland and Ireland. It was a whirlwind! We saw so many things and learned so much from our tour guide Paddy. He went above and beyond for our group. He was funny and full of information. He would tell us about the area we were going and give us suggestions for what to see and where to eat when he dropped us off. The one issue our group had was starting our three course two hour dinner at 7:30 each night. By the end of the day we were exhausted and ready for a quicker bite before bed. But I would certainly book another tour with My Ireland Tours! They are organized and well planned! Thank you for an amazing vacation!

Christina Hodel

November 2022  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

No wonder that fairies, leprechauns and other fabulous creatures have chosen to live in Ireland and Scotland. Driving along the picturesque Loch Lomond or through the forest at Lough Eske Castle I was almost expecting to see some of them. It would have been a marvellous addition to the picture of Nessie … But without the help of Eric and his team I would never have been able to enjoy another amazing tour with My Ireland Tour. Thanks again for finding me a vacancy on this tour. We were just 24 people and had plenty of space in a huge and very comfortable coach. Although I was the only non- native English speaker, I never felt lost on contrary this awesome and friendly group made me feel welcome the very beginning. Our tour director Harry Fisher was simply the best. I still envy his outstanding driving skills. If you want to see Ireland / Scotland and meet fantastic people, I highly recommend My Ireland Tour.

Marianne Casale

Just finished our the 14 day tour of Scotland and Ireland. It was a mother-daughters trip and I can say we would do a tour with My Ireland Tour again in a heartbeat. I loved the small size of the tour and the ability to space out on the bus. The smaller tour also gave us an opportunity to meet a wonderful group of people. Our driver Harry was outstanding and did a great job on reading the mood of the bus each and every day. If My Ireland Tour did 2 weeks in Scotland I would book another trip tomorrow. Thank you for a wonderful time - my daughters loved every moment of the trip.

Katie Brandt

October 2022  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

My husband and I loved our trip to Scotland and Ireland with My Ireland Tour. Our driver/guide was fantastic! He was knowledgeable about the history of the area and pointed out interesting places along the drive. The food was amazing. Our hotels were all very nice. This tour allowed us to see many places in Scotland and Ireland in the 2 weeks. I felt the pace was good. There was a nice mix of time with the group and time on our own. I appreciated being able to go on a big trip and not have to plan all of the little details. We could not have asked for a better trip. We highly recommend My Ireland Tour and would go on another trip with them in the future!

Meryl Franke

My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed the Scotland/Ireland tour. Our driver/guide, Pat, not only facilitated each detail of the journey, but helped it come alive with his vast knowledge. My only suggestion would be to use hotels in Galway and Dublin that allow travelers to access the city on their free time. Lodging outside of town restricts ability to see and visit local sites. Thank you for a once in a lifetime experience!!!!

Diana Attia

We just returned from a wonderfully organized and executed tour of both Scotland and Ireland. I always wanted to go, but a recent surprising DNA test validated a suspicion. Yep, very close ties to Donegal, Ireland, so we just had to go. Even met a new family member while there. The lodging selections were all great, and some even fantastic castles. The food provided was also good and it was great at the end of a travel day to have the dinner included. Our guide Harry Fisher was on time, knowledgeable, funny, a great driver and had all of our best interests in mind while managing a 14 day tour. He had a wealth of information and history for all of the stops on our itinerary. I learned a lot. He was very diplomatic and had so much class in how information was presented. He told us history and folk lore stories. Was really fun. Occasionally he even sang a tune for us. I picked My Ireland for a more local experience. The tour company planned every detail very well. Buses were clean, comfortable, stops for bio breaks were great, and we all appreciated the thoughtfulness of our host. Highly recommend this tour company! My only suggestion is more salads at dinner. October weather was on the cooler side, but I prefer that to a hot summer. Enjoyed it and will have many great memories to reflect on for years to come. You must go!

Paul & Sue Johnston

We went on the Scotland and Ireland 14 day tour in Oct 2022. There were 24 people on the tour; 23 0f 24 from the USA and 1 from Switzerland. The group was friendly and a lot of fun. The management of the tour was excellent. The My Ireland office was very prompt in their communication and very personable. The hotels arranged for the tour were top notch and the food was great. Our guide was Harry Fisher. He was an excellent driver, especially with the many tight turns for the coach. Harry was very enthusiastic and knowledgeable. He knew the history of each area we visited which helped us relate to the sites. Best of all was his humor and his Irish blarney kept us on our toes. We highly recommend this tour company and the 2 country tour.

My husband Rick and I just returned from the 2-week Scottland and Ireland tour. We had a wonderful time. All hotels except one (Menlo Park) were first rate. Our driver and guide Patrick could not have been more knowledgeable and accommodating. We were exhausted when we returned home because it is fast paced, but we feel we really got a great feel of both countries. A great addition to the tour would be a visit to the Titanic Museum in Belfast. We were disappointed that we did not have the opportunity to visit there. All in all, a 5 star experience!

Would highly recommend this tour. Took the 2 week Iconic Scotland / Ireland tour and was very happy with all aspects of it. We covered a lot of ground; Scotland, Northern Ireland, & the Republic of Ireland. We saw all the major highlights of these areas that would have been hard to see on our own in the same amount of time. Hotels were great and breakfast and dinner was included for each day. Our Tour guide/leader, Paddy, was fantastic. Very knowledgeable in the historical and political aspects of these regions presented the information in a way to make it interesting to all.

Dennis Knight

Our expectations were exceeded in almost every respect. Paddy O'Farrell became a friend to all on the tour and provided insight to the history and culture of Scotland and especially Ireland while directing us to the myriad of stunning views and memories of a trip well planned, beginning to end.

shelby boyd

I booked a long awaited trip to Scotland and Ireland through My Ireland Tour and it was the best trip ever. I started out in Edinburgh and after touring Scotland for 5 and a half days and then over 8 days throughout Ireland with a great tour guide, Paddy Farrell, I had a great time. I saw castles, even stayed in a couple, ate great food, watched a sheep dog demonstration, Irish dancers, visited beautiful Cathedrals, saw some beautiful countryside! I plan on going back for another tour and highly recommend this company for anyone that want to visit these countries! Thank you My Ireland Tour for a wonderful experience!

September 2022  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

My wife and I highly recommend My Ireland Tour! We particularly enjoyed out tour guide, Harry Fisher, who is kind, knowledgeable and extremely funny. The two week tour included all the highlights of Scotland and Ireland on a lovely roomy air-conditioned coach. The group was small so there was plenty of room on board and the hotels were excellent especially The Loch Eske Castle in Donegal. If you take the tour you will not be disappointed and don't forget to kiss the Blarney Stone!

Virginia Porter

We just returned from the wonderful Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour and must rave about it! It was a trip of a lifetime. Our Tour Director/Driver Harry Fisher is very knowledgeable, fun and accommodating as well as a very skilled driver which we saw firsthand on those hairpin turns. He regaled us with historic facts, stories and tidbits from Edinburgh to Dublin. We highly recommend this tour and Terrific Harry!

Lewis Kanter

We recently spent two weeks touring parts of Scotland and Ireland with the my Ireland tour group. We had a private car and driver for the entire trip. The driver was excellent polite efficient and had a great personality. The places chosen to to go to work wonderful and very enjoyable. The trip was efficiently put together with great feedback opportunities. The local guides which were at various points of the trip were generally excellent. The hotels were variable depending on where we were located some were excellent and some were good. We Had a great time and would recommend them to anyone considering a visit to Scotland or Ireland.

Roy Gursslin

What a wonderful experience! We just returned from 14 days of Scotland and Ireland! Our tour guide went above and beyond. Always there to help and guide us. He really is 'Terrific' Harry as he kept mentioning. Would definitely recommend My Ireland tour to anyone.

Shelley Lang

We took the 14 day Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour on August 27-September 9, 2022 that a friend discovered and had booked for themselves. Upon researching this tour, we were so impressed with the small tour size, all the cities and places we would visit, and the quality of the hotels that we tried to book it for our 40th wedding anniversary only to learn that it, and all others this summer, were fully booked! Luckily for us, we got a phone call from Shannon to advise that they had just had a cancellation on the tour we had originally wanted to book! The week prior to the tour we received an email with our detailed tour itinerary which I took with me. I found this document very useful and read it every evening to familiarize myself with where and what we would be doing the following day. Regretfully, the distillery promoted on their website was changed to a very new one and while we learned about the making of their whiskey there was no sampling. The hotels were all 4 star or better. A number didn't have individual room air conditioning but thank goodness their windows did open and fans were provided which made sleeping temperatures more comfortable. Why all European hotels use heavy duvets in the summer is a mystery as the rooms are too warm for them. The food was fantastic and plentiful with dinners all being 3 courses. Our daily dinner menus provided 2 appetizer choices, 3 entrees, and a couple of desserts and all featured local fare. My husband is allergic to onions and the staff knew what dishes contained them and where possible were able to eliminate from the dish he ordered or suggest an alternate dish. The days were long which we expected given the distances covered and the activities and sights included. Dinners were generally around 7pm with a few at 8pm. I took a supply of Power Bars which I was glad to have as there were no coffee breaks or places to buy snacks. Our driver, Paddy, offered to buy us tickets to Celtic Steps, an Irish dance and music show being held nearby. The show was fantasic! We really enjoyed the Traditional Music Night and dinner at the Merry Ploughboy Pub in Dublin area. Service was excellent as was the quality of the food and entertainment. We highly recommend My Ireland Tours and wouldn't hesitate to book another one with them.

Debbie Brown

I just came back from the 14 day Scotland & Ireland tour and can't say enough about it. The company handled all of the accommodations, reservations and tours flawlessly. We had a fun group and Paddy our tour guide was the best! Each day was action packed so be prepared for a lot of walking. The hotel accommodations and castles were fun to explore as well as the meals. You do have free time in the late afternoon or after dinner to explore on your own. I came in a day ahead which was helpful to get acclimated before the tour started. Others added a day or two at the end. I know there's no way I would've been able to see everything had I done this on my own. Overall, I can't say enough about the experience and the company. Great communication throughout the entire process. Thank you Shauni and Paddy for an awesome and memorable vacation!!!

Richard Lothamer

We just returned from the Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour and it definitely met our expectations. This was our first bus/coach tour and it provided us with visits to so many amazing sites. The accommodations were first rate, the meals were very good, and the itinerary was superb. Our guide/driver, Paddy, was excellent. He went above and beyond on many occasions for us, for others in need of specific help, and for the entire group by adding extra stops along the way. He was very knowledgeable, pleasant, and entertaining. The specialty tour guides were also very informative and friendly. We also enjoyed meeting the other guests and felt like a family at the end of the tour. We highly recommend this tour!

This was our first trip to Scotland and Ireland, and I don't think we could have selected a better tour company than MyIrelandTour. Our driver/tour guide Mike was outstanding throughout the tour. Mike, being from Dublin had a vast amount of knowledge regarding Ireland as well as Scotland. He made the 14 day tour go by too fast!!! In regard to our tour package, out hotel accommodations, dinners and breakfasts were 5 star. The various attractions and sites that we stopped at were all historical and beautiful. If you plan on visiting Scotland or Ireland or both, I highly recommend that you consider MyIrelandTour!!!!

August 2022  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

Best tour ever! Paddy our guide and driver added many interesting stops not listed on the itinerary. Stopping every hour or two made it stress free. Highly recommend this company as they quickly responded to a multitude of questions I emailed before we arrived. Our Scotland and Ireland trip was a trip everyone should have on their bucket list. Amazing and welcoming people throughout the trip.

Isabel Piscopo

The Ireland and Scotland tour was superbly organised and I was very satisfied with all of it. The guide was always present and informative. The accomodation was all very good. In my opinion, this almost perfect tour could be made even more perfect with a one day extension in Belfast and most people on the tour also commented on it. This would have meant that we could have visited the Titanic exhibition which most people wished to visit. It would also have meant that the following day we could have left for Giant's Causeway earlier and arrived at Lough Eske Castle in early afternoon instead of at 6.30. This is such a stupendous place and has so many amenities we would have all wished to have had more time for . Sometimes the dinner timing was changed to an earlier time and while this might have suited clients from the USA it did not really suit us from Europe who are used to dining much later. It meant rushing to get ready for dinner after a long drive and the evening just ended earlier. On the whole, I was very pleased and am thinking of taking a different trip with the same company in the future, perhaps a more luxurious one in some of the great accomodations they offer. I would recommend the company to anyone.

We had a wonderful time on our tour of Scotland and Ireland. The accommodations exceeded our expectations and the food was awesome. The tour itself offered a variety of sights and activities. Our only complaint is that we didn't have enough time at each place. We now have more reasons to go back! Our tour driver (Paddy)was I woboth knowledgeable and flexible. Our family would definitely use this t his your company again.

Edward Corcoran

Just returned from the 14 day Iconic tour of Scotland and Ireland, and it was amazing. The places we visited were all memorable with each having their own mystique. We were treated to very good to excellent accomodations with delicious morning and evening fare. The best of the best was Paddy, our driver, guide, and consul. He made the journey come alive. Although some days were hurried, there was always time for a wee dram with our fellow travelers. Wish our group the best until we meet again.

suzanne kettel

July 2022  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

Paddy, our tour guide was absolutely wonderful, so knowledgeable and an awesome person, took great care of all of us. This was the trip of a lifetime for me and I enjoyed every minute of it. Highly recommend to anyone looking for a tour of Scotland and Ireland. I have over 1000 pictures and so many wonderful memories. Can't wait to go again, this tour company was excellent.

Diane Miller

We had a fabulous time on our 14 day tour of Scotland and Ireland! Absolutely loved the gorgeous scenery and all the historical sights. Our driver and guide Paddy O'Farrell was awesome!! He made our trip so special. We would highly recommend this amazing tour to family and friends! Diane Miller Baton Rouge, LA

Cristina Besore

Great tour of Scotland and Ireland. Hotels were very nice and the food was delicious. Very informative tour guides in Scotland and Paddy was excellent in Ireland. Overall a wonderful experience.

S. Jeffrey Ackerman

My wife and I took the Scotland/Ireland tour the end of May first 10 days of June. We had a wonderful experience with a variety of sites in both countries. Paddy was our driver and was great. I am sure all of their drivers are wonderful but our experience with Paddy would be hard to beat. For me the visit to the distillery, cut glass factory and sheep dog herding demonstration was quite enlightening. Our stay in 2 different castles was a unique experience and both were quite different. My wife, the shopper, liked everything as well but especially the trip to Blarney Woollen Mills where she could by sweaters! We went a day early to adjust to the time change and the overnight travel thinking we might take a nap and go sight seeing. However, we couldn't get in the room until the afternoon (we arrived at 9 AM) so we went sight seeing without the nap. It was nice to be able to do so and if you make the same decision I recommend a visit to the Edinburg Botanical Gardens.

cindy foreman

June 2022  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

We spent 2 weeks this May, 2022 touring Scotland and Ireland with Pat and My Ireland Tours. The daily itinerary was suggested to us but we were able to make changes. We were a party of 11 and this type of tour was exactly what we wanted- not a bus with 40-50 people. We moved at our own pace and Pat was amazing. Not only was he an exceptional driver but an A+++ tour guide. We were constantly surprised by his knowledge of history and many, many fun stories. We all loved his great sense of humor... Pat had suggestions of where to eat, places not to miss. The trip was all we expected and more!

14 Day Scotland - Ireland Tour. This was the trip of a life time. We originally scheduled this trip for 2021 but had to reschedule for 2022. The wait was well worth it! The sites, the hotels and tour bus were worthy of 5 stars. Our guide, Paddy, should be given more than 5 stars. His knowledge and explanation (with a bit of humor) of the sites visited was wonderful. He also made some stops that were not on the tour that were beautiful photo opportunities. My wife had a medical issue a week into the tour and Paddy made sure to find us a 24 hour medical care within a 1/2 mile of our hotel. While we stayed at the hotel for the day, Paddy kept in contact with us to make sure everything was ok. Every thing that we saw and experienced was amazing. The last night at the Merry Ploughboys Restaurant and Pub was the perfect end to a magical vacation. If I were to change one thing about the tour, it would be to have an afternoon off at a 2 night hotel about half way through the tour. We could have used an afternoon of down time to just relax. Still a 5 star tour that we would do again in a heart beat!

Katie Woodard

My mom and I really enjoyed this tour to Scotland and Ireland. Our tour guide Paddy was wonderful: nice, funny, knowledgeable, and on top of everything. Most of the hotels were awesome. Two of them were even castles, which was amazing. The activities were great, and we usually had some free time in the evening before dinner to either relax or explore the town on our own if we need more physical activity after spending a lot of time on the bus. The food was good. They fulfilled dietary requirements. The castles had amazing menus. My only minor complaint was by the end of the tour the meals were getting so repetitive. It felt like I ate 2 different meals over and over.

Samantha Bissett

We used My Ireland Tours to take our first trip to Ireland and they made it better than we could have ever imagined. They took so much stress off of our plates when it came to booking hotels, travel, Covid protocol, and giving us the best tour guides. My whole family agrees that our driver Pat was a highlight of our experience! He was knowledgeable about everywhere we went and was great if we decided we wanted to do something on the fly, he would get it done for us! Our private bus was amazing, we joked that it was almost too comfortable because we always wanted to take a nap in it! We saw so much of Ireland and we know we couldn't have done that without My Ireland Tours. If you want to see all the sights of Ireland I fully recommend setting up a trip with My Ireland Tours and get Pat as your driver!

Mark Spindler

May 2022  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

This is our second tour of Ireland which also included time in Scotland (Edinburgh and Glascow). Our accommodations, for the most part, were very good with the highlight being Harvey's Point in Donegal. Our driver and tour guide, Pat, made the experience very special. His understanding and depth of knowledge of the people and history of Ireland are exceptional. He was able to put into context the complicated history of Ireland and made travel to every destination an adventure. We also appreciated his Irish wit. We highly recommend My Ireland Tours. Well done!

My trip to Scotland and Ireland was a dream I have had for many years. My Ireland Tours did NOT disappoint. The accommodations were excellent, as was the food. I could not have asked for a better tour guide than Paddy. He was one of the best bus drivers I have every had, which was vitally important due to the narrow roads, especially through some of the smaller towns. He gave us a vivid picture of the history of Scotland and Ireland, while adding personal stories, explaining local lore and culture. In addition, Paddy listened to the members of the tour. He broke up some of the long drives as best he could, so we could stretch our legs and take pictures. He was patient and somehow was always in good spirits. This tour has only whetted my appetite to return to these beautiful countries and experience places we were unable to go. You absolutely cannot go wrong with My Ireland Tours, especially if you are lucky enough to have Paddy as your guide. Well worth every dime spent.

Cherri Spaulding

Outstanding!!!!! In a one word description. I took the 14 day Scotland/Ireland tour. This was my 1st trip abroad as a solo traveler so there was much research before I booked this trip. MyIrelandTour has a very fair Covid policy if you need to change your plans so I took the plunge, made final payment & never looked back. Anytime I emailed the company they responded almost immediately. Any questions were answered so I felt very comfortable boarding that plane & making my way across the ocean. I was greeted by our driver Paddy at Edinburgh Airport. Myself & a few others had arrived for pickup. At our first hotel even though it was very early for check in, the hotel was able to get all of us into our rooms. This was so appreciated after the flight. From the driver/guide to the group to the 3-5 star accommodations. The meals, the sites we visited, the scenery when traveling & the knowledge of Paddy & a couple other Step-on Guides made this trip an unforgettable experience I will never forget. It has set the bar very high for any future tours I may take. Key take aways- Mad driving skills by our driver Paddy. Got us where we needed to be on time & safe. Learned so much history from Paddy. He gave enough information but did not talk continuously. He knows the history of the lands. Played some good local music. Did I mention Paddy!!! Just can not say enough great things about him. He is a gem. Our group-could not have asked for a better group to travel with. There were several other solo travelers. Small group but large bus so we could spread out. Max group size is 26, we had 24. Accommodations, clean, friendly staff, welcoming. Restaurants served good food. Always a good selection for your breakfast & dinner. Dinners were all 3 course. Alcoholic beverages are not included. All hotels had a bar. The places we visited were all very interesting & very beautiful. Many we had time to wonder on our own. Quiant little towns. Live Irish show on our last night was entertaining. If you have been considering a visit to this area I highly recommend this tour company. I will definitely use again if I go back.

Carol Jackson

Our tour of Scotland and Ireland was fabulous. Our tour guide Paddy was so informative, kind, humorous and accommodating. The stories he told gave us insight to so much more of the history of such remarkable, historical, beautiful sights! The hotels were very comfortable and the food amazing. We toured with a great group of people! I would highly recommend My Ireland Tours to anyone! It was a trip of a lifetime! Thank you Paddy for making our memories ones that will never be forgotten!

My husband and I did the 14 day Ireland and Scotland Tour. Our tour Director was Damien McKenna who was 5 star awesome! Damien has an amazing depth of knowledge of the culture, history, geography, geology, politics which he shared every day. His depth of experience, relationships with Irish/Scottish people along the way provided extra value. He got us to the Blarney site early before the cruise ships, so we waited 10 minutes not 90. He suggested interesting restaurants and knew what to avoid, what wasted time. At several sites, he suggested the most time efficient way to see it. He is a kind, thoughtful person and made me feel comfortable.

Michael Baeta

03 June 2024  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

What a great Scotland and Ireland trip with our driver/guide, the legendary Paddy. He was very knowlegable about the history and sites of Ireland and Scotland. The trip was very comfortable and a 5 star trip. We had a great group of people on our trip that would not let me forget it was my 70 birthday which we spent a Killarney Brewery....Great tour, great driver and would highly recommend MyIreland to everybody looking for a trip to Ireland and Scotland. Mickey and Chris Baeta

Judi Martini

31 May 2024  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

So glad we booked our tour of Ireland and Scotland through My Ireland tour. We got to see so many of the iconic landmarks you hear about but also special places that you never knew existed. On top of that our guide Paddy O'Farrell talked about the history, lore and spirit of these beautiful lands which gave a perspective that was priceless. Truly an amazing experience

Linda Thompson

30 May 2024  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

Just returned from the Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour. Truly a remarkable and beautiful tour. I thoroughly enjoyed every single day! All the sites, historical cities, tours,etc. were beyond my expectations in every way. My fellow tour group friends were so great and everyone got along so well, an added plus! Hotels were great, comfortable with most excellent food. John, our Tour Guide took extra effort to ensure we had historical background on each site and even stopped at some extra fun and beautiful sites along our way. Not only did John go above and beyond to make sure our tour group enjoyed every day but he was also incredibly funny and witty. He had all of us laughing every day. Just a great guy and tour guide! Thanks for the most beautiful scenery/sites kind people, and expansive tour. I will always remember this tour and will hold the many lovely memories in my heart!

26 October 2022  •  Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour

Popular on this tour

Edinburgh is Scotland's modern-day cultural hub and its capital city. Read more...

Scotland's number 1 tourist attraction. Built during the 12th century. Read more...

This Palace is the official residence of the British Royal Family. Read more...

Kingsbarns Distillery

A quaint distillery and visitors' centre located within an 18th century farmstead. Read more...

Home to the Loch Ness Monster and the deepest lake on the British Isles. Read more...

Stirling Castle sits atop Castle Hill in the Southeast of the town of Stirling. Read more...

• Glasgow City

Scotland's most populous city, its people have their own cultural identity. Read more...

Founded by Glasgow's patron Saint Mungo and Scotland's oldest cathedral. Read more...

See how Belfast grew from its past political & religious divisions. Read more...

40,000 basalt columns make up this UNESCO World Heritage site. Read more...

The Antrim Coast

Endless Coastal views and stunning scenery, your camera is essential. Read more...

Discover the magic behind one of Ireland's most ancient crafts. Read more...

One of Ireland's most romantic and aesthetically pleasing buildings. Read more...

Connemara is a rugged and scenic landscape in western County Galway. Read more...

• Galway City

This harbour City is found on Ireland's rugged West Coast. Read more...

The views will not disappoint at this most popular tourist attraction. Read more...

The Burren takes its name from the Gaelic for "rocky land" or "great rock". Read more...

Killarney Lakes

Found on the majestic lands of Killarney National Park in County Kerry. Read more...

• Ring Of Kerry

Embrace the beauty around every corner of this famous driving route. Read more...

This 600-year-old Irish castle is famed for its legendary kissing stone. Read more...

• Blarney Woollen Mills

Take a step back into the history of Irish industry and craftmenship . Read more...

A remarkably well-preserved fortress, that has stood for a millennium. Read more...

Christ Church

1000-year-old home to a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta. Read more...

Learn all about the famous drink whose heritage is a story of Ireland itself. Read more...

EPIC: Emigration Museum

Trace the fascinating history of Irish emigration through the ages. Read more...

This tour features the Wild Atlantic Way

Journey along Ireland's most famous route and see its most popular destinations on The Wild Atlantic Way .

Prices, Availability & Payment

Reviews • What's included • Other tours

Payment terms

For payment terms click here . Alternatively, you can also view our full terms and conditions .

Flexible Cancellations

We have added extra flexibility to our cancellation timeline. This means you can now make unlimited changes to your chosen tour up to 60 days before your arrival . Our cancellation timeline is as follows. For more details, see our terms and conditions .

Up to 60 days before the start of tour:

The Deposit is non-refundable. However, before 60 days you can make unlimited changes for free, including changing your tour dates (including transferring to a tour in 2025), changing your tour and changing tour participants.

59 to 40 days before start of tour:

25% of total price is forfeited on cancellation

39 to 14 days before start of tour:

50% of total price is forfeited on cancellation

Less than 14 days before start of tour:

100% of total price is forfeited on cancellation

The Deposit for the Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour 2024 is €750 per person.

Single Occupancy Supplement

For guests who are travelling alone and are therefore not sharing a room, the single occupancy supplement for the Iconic Ireland and Scotland Tour 2024 is €890.

Balance Payments:

The full balance is due 60 days before your tour.

All payments are in Euros.

Credit Cards & Fees:

We do not charge any fees for paying by credit card. We accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express.

Children's Rate:

Children ages 8 yrs - 17 yrs inclusive receive a 10% discount on the prices. Children must share a room with a least 1 adult. Our tours do not cater for children 7 yrs or younger. You must be 18 or over to travel on our adults-only tours.

Participant Cancellation:

Once a partial or full payment has been made, cancellations will only be accepted in writing (either by email or standard mail) to My Ireland Tour. Cancellation terms will be applied based on the date that the written cancellation is received and based on the following dates prior to tour commencement. Cancellation fees apply as indicated above. All cancellation fees include the initial deposit.

About your Tour Guide

45% of our reviews mention their tour guide by name

Perhaps the most vital ingredient of any tour is your tour guide. Acting not only as your guide but also as your driver, their knowledge and experience, passion and personality form the foundation on which any successful tour is built.

That's why we only work with the very best guides in Ireland. As our past guests know, our tour guides are a big reason why we're Ireland's best-rated tour operator, with 1484 five-star reviews out of a possible 1523.

Irish born and bred

All of our driver-guides were born in Ireland and have lived here all their lives. What's more, they are passionate about our country, its culture and its heritage.

Qualified and experienced

Our driver-guides are qualified, experienced professionals who are committed to impeccable customer care and making your vacation memorable for all the right reasons.

Experts in Irish history & culture

Our driver-guides are true experts in their field. Their knowledge of Irish history, culture (and where to get the best pint of Guinness) is second to none.

Committed to your safety and care

Your safety and comfort are paramount to us and to all our driver-guides. All our guides are experienced coach drivers with impeccable safety records.

Tour accommodation

We are very selective in getting just the right accommodation for each specific tour, and we are very proud of the selection of hotels we have put together. Some of these hotels are family-owned, just like ourselves, and we have a long-standing relationship with them all.

Tour Vehicles

On a tour vacation, the journey can be just as important as the destination. That's why our tour buses are all of the highest standards, both in terms of luxury and reliability.

We choose our tour vehicles carefully. All our tour buses offer plenty of space to spread out, tinted windows, air conditioning and on-board fridges. It's what you should expect.

We deliberately leave some seats empty. In fact, we use 34-seater coaches, but limit the number of participants to 26. That's because we want all of our guests to be able to spread out, relax and enjoy the journey. This smaller group size is a core principle in our tours.

Please note: the bus shown in the gallery is one of the 34-seater coaches used on our tours for max. 26 guests. For any reason, should one of these become unavailable for your tour, we will endeavour to provide an equally luxurious and comfortable touring bus.

What's included in my vacation?

Tour attractions.

• Sheepdog Demonstration
• Ring of Kerry

Hospitality

• 13 Nights Accommodation
• 13 Evening Meals
• 13 Breakfasts
• 1 Pub Lunch
• Tour Director
• Airport Arrival Transfers
• All local taxes
• Porterage of one suitcase per person
• Luxury Air-Conditioned Coach
• Ferry Tickets to Belfast on Stena Line
• Airport Departure Transfers

Not Included

• Gratuity for the Tour Guide
• Travel Insurance (required)
• Blind Piper Pub Lunch
• Beverages except Tea / Coffee with Breakfast & Evening Dinner
• Room Service
• Telephone Charges

• Sample Itineraries
• Transport Options
• Genealogy Tours

Other 2024 Tour Packages

• Iconic Britain and Ireland (18 Days)
• Iconic Britain Tour (10 Days)
• 14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (14 Days)
• 10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (10 Days)
• 8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (8 Days)
• 6-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland (6 Days)
• Deluxe Irish Castles Tour (10 Days)
• Historic Irish Castle Tour (7 Days)
• Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour (13 Days)
• Ancient Ireland Tour (8 Days)
• Discover Northern Ireland (6 Days)

2025 Tour Packages

• Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour (14 Days)
• Highlights of Ireland and Scotland Tour (9 Days)

Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

About Adare Village and Thatched Cottages

Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.

Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way .

About The Antrim Coast

En route to The Giant's Causeway, you will travel along the legendary Antrim Coast, a route with views so stunning that it is considered a destination in its own right. Prepare to be amazed: here you will find some of the greatest coastal landscapes any travel photographer could hope to capture.

• Belfast City

About Belfast City

Since peace returned to Belfast in the late 1990s, Northern Ireland's capital has undergone an astonishing transformation. Once tied in with sectarian violence and, perhaps cruelly, lumped in with Bosnia, Beiruit and Baghdad on the list of places for globe-trotting tourists to avoid, the city is now a modern, thriving and cosmopolitan hub of hotels, restaurants and family-friendly attractions.

Find out more

Belfast Tour & Murals

About Belfast Tour & Murals

You will be joined by a local specialist guide on a city tour of Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland. You will see and hear all about the history of this once troubled city including the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road and Nationalist Falls Road.

About Belleek Pottery

Travelling along the shores of Lough Erne Upper and Lough Erne Lower, you will reach Belleek Pottery, one of the oldest potteries in the world dating from 1857. Today, the visitor centre still displays pieces which date from those early samples over 150 years ago.

Belleek Pottery can be found just off the trail of the Wild Atlantic Way

Visit their website...

Black Taxi Tour Belfast

About Black Taxi Tour Belfast

Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.

Blarney Castle and The Blarney Stone

About Blarney Castle and The Blarney Stone

Situated five miles north-west of Cork city, Blarney Castle is a solid fixture on almost any tour of Ireland. It is best known for the famous "Blarney Stone" of which visitors are encouraged to kiss, in accordance with a tradition that spans centuries.

About Blarney Woollen Mills

Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.

About The Burren

A limestone plateau covering 250 square kilometres, The Burren takes its name quite aptly from the Gaelic for "rocky land" or "great rock". While in one sense very fitting, the name does not do justice to what experts have more justly termed " one of the world's most stunningly unique natural heritage regions ".

The Burren runs alongside the Wild Atlantic Way .

About Christ Church Cathedral

Christ Church Cathedral, founded by the Viking King Sitric almost 1000 years ago in 1034. The cathedral crypt is one of the largest in the UK and Ireland, dating back to the 12th Century. Here in the crypt, you can see the Mummified remains of the Cat and the Rat which were found in the cathedral organ, and a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta.

About The Cliffs of Moher

One of the most popular and most eagerly anticipated attractions on any vacation in Ireland , and the views will not disappoint. They rise to a height of 702ft (214m) and 9 miles (14km) long, these sheer vertical cliffs hold a steady, undulating line against the tireless advance of the Atlantic below. A better view of the sea and setting sun you will not find.

The Cliffs of Moher are a Signature Discovery Point on the Wild Atlantic Way. For more information click here .

About Connemara

Connemara, in western County Galway, is a rugged and scenic landscape. Once described as a place of "savage beauty" by Oscar Wilde, Connemara is an expanse of bogs, mountains and lakes.

Connemara is also home to two Wild Atlantic Way's Signature Discovery Points in Derrigimlagh Bog and Killary Harbour .

Culloden Battlefield

About Culloden Battlefield

The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.

About Drumcliffe

Visit Drumcliffe Cemetery in County Sligo where you can read the epitaph on the grave of W.B. Yeats. Found nestled between Ben Bulben mountain and Drumcliffe bay.

Explore Drumcliffe along the Wild Atlantic Way .

Dublin City

About Dublin City

Dublin is Ireland's capital city. It is known as being a friendly and vibrant place to visit — with an endless list of activities and destinations available to explore and world-famous nightlife.

About Edinburgh Castle

Luring over Edinburgh from its position on Castle Rock, Edinburgh Castle has been a fixture of the skyline since the 12th century. The location of Castle Rock, formed on top of an extinct volcano, made it the ideal location to build a defensive fortress. Edinburgh Castle, over the years, has been used as a place to burn 'witches' at the stake, foil rebellions and house prisoners of war. Today it is Scotland's number 1 tourist attraction.

About Edinburgh City

Edinburgh has been Scotland's capital city since the 15th century. It is Scotland's second most populous city, after Glasgow, and is the location of both the Scottish government and monarchy. Edinburgh is seen as the cultural hub of Scotland, with its thriving festival scene attracting 4.4 million visitors to the city in the month of August alone.

About EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum

EPIC: The Irish Emigration Museum, tracks the harrowing history of the 10 million Irish people left the island, for a variety of reasons, over the past 300 years.

About Galway City

Galway City is seen as the cultural and artistic hub of Ireland. Take time to enjoy the artisanal food and relaxed, Bohemian vibes of this unique city.

Galway City and Salthill Promenade form part of the Wild Atlantic Way. The county of Galway also includes the Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Points of Killary Harbour, Cleggan Harbour and Sky Road. For more information click here .

About The Giant's Causeway

Northern Ireland's only UNESCO World Heritage site, known in Gaelic as Clochán na bhFomhórach or Clochán an Aifir, The Giant's Causeway is an area of 40,000 basalt columns, formed into a regular interlocking pattern by an ancient volcanic lava flow.

About Glasgow Cathedral

Glasgow Cathedral is the oldest building in Glasgow and the oldest cathedral on the Scottish mainland (Built in the 12th century). It is located where the patron saint of Glasgow, Saint Mungo, is thought to have built his church. Saint Mungo's tomb is found in the cathedral's lower crypt. Today the cathedral is publicly owned and is the responsibility of the Historic Environment Scotland Group.

About Glasgow City

With a population of 621,020, Glasgow is Scotland's most populous city (3rd in the UK). The people of Glasgow are known as "Glaswegians" or "Weegies" and are often noted by visitors as have a very distinct, sometimes hard to understand, way of speaking, known as the Glasgow patter. During the industrial revolution Glasgow became a centre of shipbuilding and marine engineering and saw its population and economy grow rapidly. Today Glasgow remains a commercial hub of the UK and a city that continues to attract a large number of tourists every year.

About Glengowla Mines - Sheepdog Demo

Keith Geoghegan is the owner and operator of Glengowla Mines and Family Farm Experience. The Geoghegan family has been inextricably linked to the mines and farm for many centuries. Their ancestors cultivated the land and worked in the mine. They moved into the Mine Agent's Cottage once the mine shut down and stayed there until 1989.

Glenveagh Castle

About Glenveagh Castle

Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.

About The Guinness Storehouse

Guinness is more than just a brand, indeed, more than just a beer. And that's not just for the Irish, but for the many millions of Guinness-drinkers worldwide. The site of the brewery itself is massive, at a staggering 26 hectares, but it will be the old grain storehouse that you visit. Shaped like a giant pint of the black stuff, this most popular of Dublin attractions towers over the surrounding neighbourhoods, with the top-floor Gravity Bar offering a delightful panorama across the Dublin cityscape which can only be enhanced by a well-earned pint to cap-off your visit.

Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum

About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.

About Holyrood Palace

Holyrood Palace, officially known as The Palace of Holyroodhouse is located at the opposite end of The Royal Mile from Edinburgh Castle. It is the official residence of the British Royal Family, and is often the setting for state occasions in the area. It has been the main residence of the Kings and Queens of Scots since the 16th century.

Killarney National Parks & Lakes

About Killarney National Parks & Lakes

Muckross Estate, in the town of Killarney, County Kerry was donated to the Irish Free State in 1932. Its grounds became Ireland's first national park and, over time, it has expanded to encompass nearly 25,500 acres. The jewel in the crown of the park is its majestic lakes, Lough Leane (the lower lake), Muckross Lake (the middle lake), and the Upper Lake. These lakes make up a quarter of the park's area and continue to draw admirers in huge numbers ever since the park first opened.

Killarney National Parks & Lakes are located a short distance from the town of Kenmare on the Wild Atlantic Way .

Killarney Town

About Killarney Town

Though perhaps offering fewer historical and cultural attractions than its west-coast counterparts, Killarney more than makes up for this with the welcoming bustle of the town itself and the staggering natural beauty of its neighbouring namesake, the Killarney National Park just five-minutes' drive away.

• Killary Fjord

About Killary Fjord

Ireland's only true fjord, Killary Harbour, stretches 16 kilometres from the Atlantic coast to its head at the magnificent Aasleagh Falls. It forms a dramatic border between the counties of Galway and Mayo and is strikingly beautiful the entire way along.  

Killary Harbour is also one of the Signature Discovery Points found along the Wild Atlantic Way.

King John's Castle

About King John's Castle

Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.

About Kingsbarns Distillery

Celebrating the craft and heritage of Scottish whisky making, Kingsbarns Distillery is a family-run distillery dating back to the 19th Century.

About Kylemore Abbey

Kylemore Abbey is not only one of Ireland's most attractive buildings; since 1920, it has also been home to the Sisters of the Benedictine Order in Ireland. Even today, Kylemore continues to operate as a working Abbey: here, the sisters live, work and pray, as well as welcome visitors from across the globe. Kylemore Abbey's greatest attraction is its location. Nestled at the base of Duchruach Mountain on the northern shore of Lough Pollacappul, in the heart of the Connemara Mountains, it is regarded as one of Ireland's most romantic locations.

Kylemore Abbey can be viewed along the Wild Atlantic Way.

About Loch Ness

Loch Ness is the second largest loch ( lake ) in Scotland, after Loch Lomond and the deepest on the British Isles. It is most famous for the alleged presence of a creature known as the Loch Ness Monster or "Nessie". Nessie came about through stories past down from generation to generation, a few dodgy photos from the 1930s and an "official" sonar reading from around the same time. It is the U.S equivalent of Big Foot, real only in the minds of those who choose to believe... or is it?

About Moriarty's

Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Mount Congreve Gardens

About Mount Congreve Gardens

Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.

Mount Stewart House & Gardens

About Mount Stewart House & Gardens

Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.

Muckross House

About Muckross House

Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.

Muckross House Traditional Farms

About Muckross House Traditional Farms

Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.

About Pitlochry

A Victorian town located 56 miles north of Edinburgh. The town is kept in an impeccable condition throughout the year and still maintains the charm and aesthetics of its Victorian heritage.

Traditional Pub Lunch

About a Traditional Pub Lunch

While the Pub Lunch is a relatively new phenomenon in the Irish food service industry, the tradition of serving food in an Irish pub has been around for centuries. It usually consisted of the household, connected to the pub, cooking up a huge batch of stew and serving it to its patrons. As the market changed, so too did the menu. For decades, all you could expect for an Irish pub lunch was a toasted cheese sandwich and/or a bowl of soup. Today, most pubs in Ireland will serve an extensive selection of international dishes as well as traditional Irish favourites such as lamb stew and bacon & cabbage.

About Ring Of Kerry

The Ring of Kerry is located on the Iveragh Peninsula of southwest County Kerry. It is a circular driving route that takes in a number of seaside villages and picturesque coastal landscapes.

The Ring of Kerry towns of Kilorglin, Glenbeigh, Cahersiveen, Waterville, Caherdaniel, Sneem and Kenmare also feature on the Wild Atlantic Way . You can also visit the Wild Atlantic Way Signature Discovery Point of Skellig Michael , an abandoned 7th century Christian island monastery, from the town of Portmagee during the warmer months of the year.

About The Rock of Cashel

Ireland has more than its fair share of outstanding archaeological sites, but the Rock of Cashel is arguably the most impressive. The 'rock' from which it takes its name is, in fact, a limestone hill, covered in luscious green, rising from the plain which characterises the surrounding area. The word 'cashel', by contrast, is derived from the Irish Gaelic word caiseal , meaning stone fortress. It was the seat of kings and medieval bishops for 900 years and flourished until the early 17th century. Brian Ború was crowned King of Munster here in 977 and he became the High King of Ireland in 1002.

Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

About Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo

Held annually on the sprawling slopes of Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo brings together bands from the British Armed Forces, the armies of the Commonwealth and international armies. The term 'tattoo' here is taken from the old Dutch phrase doe den tap toe meaning 'turn off the tap' or last call, which in turn became the name for evening entertainment at an army barracks.

St. Andrews

About St. Andrews

Scotland's oldest university town. Also referred to as the Home of Golf, the Old Course at St Andrew's Links is the oldest golf course in the world. Enjoy some free time walking its historic cobbled alleyways.

About Stirling Castle

A symbol of Scotland's national pride and independence, Stirling Castle sits atop Castle Hill in the Southeast of the town of Stirling. The main structure of the castle was built during the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. There have been a total of eight sieges of Stirling Castle, most of them occurring during the Wars of Scottish Independence.  

• Blind Piper Pub

About Blind Piper Pub

A family pub that has become something of a 'must-visit' for anyone travelling through the Ring of Kerry in recent years. Set in the idyllic village of Ballycarnahan, and serving some of the best quality pub food in the country.

The Quiet Man Museum

About The Quiet Man Museum

The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.

• Traditional Music Night

About Traditional Music Nights

Like much of Irish culture, the best Traditional Music Nights can be found in the local pub. These range from a guy sat in the corner playing guitar to a fully-fledged band on stage. On our tours of Ireland , we often spend the last night at the Merry Ploughboy in Dublin City, enjoying the traditional Irish music and dance they have on offer. No matter what city, town or village you find yourself in you can be sure that a pub nearby will have some sort of music night happening. You can check most pubs schedule online, or by popping in when you're in the area.

What is the Wild Atlantic Way?

The Wild Atlantic Way is a long-distance touring route , the first of its kind in Ireland. It runs the length of Ireland's western coast, facing the Atlantic Ocean, from County Donegal in the northwest to County Cork in the southwest. The initial aim of the Wild Atlantic Way was to give greater visibility to Ireland's west coast in overseas markets. The Wild Atlantic Way is 2,500 km (1,553 miles) long and passes through 3 provinces of Ireland (Ulster, Connacht and Munster). It has given a huge boost to the tourism industry of the region since its launch in February 2014.

View our tours that feature the Wild Atlantic Way...

About Atholl Palace Hotel

Atholl Palace Hotel is the very definition of old-world charm. Nestled in woodland, a mile from the quaint village of Pitlochry. Featuring extensive gardens and an indoor pool.

About Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane

Clayton Hotel Cardiff Lane is a modern hotel in a central location in Dublin City centre. It has a warm, friendly atmosphere, thanks in part to the light wood furnishings and open plan layout.

About Clayton Hotel Glasgow

Clayton Hotel Glasgow is centrally located, alongside the River Clyde. The hotel is walking distance from the shopping districts and city centre attractions.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City

About DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Edinburgh City

Located just a 15-minute walk from Edinburgh Castle, DoubleTree by Hilton is the ideal location for anyone looking to explore Scotland's capital. Featuring a chic bar and restaurant and comfortable, stylish rooms.

About Dromhall Hotel

A family-run, upscale hotel, Dromhall Hotel has been a popular destination in Killarney town since the 1960s. Located within walking distance to both Killarney town centre and the Ring of Kerry. Featuring stunning, old-world decor and modern, world-class spa and dining facilities.

Europa Hotel

About Europa Hotel

Situated right across the road from the Grand opera House in Belfast City, the Europa Hotel is an historic hotel with modern facilities and old-world charm.

About Lough Eske Castle

The Lough Eske Castle, as we see it today, was built in 1861. Before that, it was a building entwined in the history of Donegal. In the 14th century, it was the seat of the powerful O'Donnell clan. At the beginning of the 20th century, it was a base for Edwardian royalty to showcase the glamour and decadence of the day. Today, it is home to an award-winning and prestigious five-star hotel.

About Menlo Park Hotel

Menlo Park Hotel is located just outside Galway City. Featuring a sleek restaurant & bar and large modern bedrooms.

18-Day Iconic Britain & Ireland Tour

• 34 attractions
• Max. 26 ppl

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.

• Free time in London
• Shakespeare's Birthplace
• Manchester River Cruise
• Tour of York City
• York Minster
• Jedburgh Abbey
• Tour of Edinburgh City
• Tour of Glasgow City
• Tour of Belfast City
• Titanic Belfast
• Irish Emigration Museum
• Departure flight home

10-Day Iconic Britain Tour

• 14 attractions

Embark on a unique and unforgettable 10-day journey as you explore the most renowned and captivating attractions that England and Scotland have to offer.

• Roman Baths
• Broadway to Cheltenham Railway
• Afternoon Tea at Broadway Hotel
• Chatsworth House
• Loch Lomond Cruise

14-Day Iconic Ireland & Scotland Tour

• 25 attractions

Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.

• Arrival at Edinburgh Airport
• St. Andrews Golf Club
• Loch Ness cruise
• Sheepdog Demo
• Rock of Cashel

14-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.

• Trim Castle
• Belfast Murals
• Hillsborough Castle & Gardens
• Bushmills Distillery
• Derry City Walls
• Lough Erne Cruise
• Devenish Island
• Jameson Distillery Midleton

10-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• 22 attractions

Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.

• Dublin Airport
• Clonmacnoise
• Free time in Galway City
• Free time in Cork City
• Charles Fort
• Irish National Stud
• Traditional Farm Lunch

8-Day Iconic Scenes of Ireland

• 17 attractions

Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.

• Mikey Ryan's Bar
• Killarney National Park
• Hazel Mountain Chocolate Factory
• Free time in Dublin City
• St Patrick's Cathedral

• 11 attractions

Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable tour.

• Glendalough Monastic Site

• Clonmacnoise Monastic Site
• Adare Village
• Cork City Gaol
• Midleton Distillery Experience
• Kilkenny Castle

Ancient Ireland Tour

• 19 attractions

An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.

• Dublin Airport arrival
• Waterford Crystal

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

• 24 attractions

Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.

• Arrival in Edinburgh Airport
• Edinburgh City tour
• Dalwhinnie Distillery
• Eilean Donan Castle
• Isle of Skye
• Glasgow City tour
• Belfast City tour
• Derry City tour
• Dublin City tour

Deluxe Castle Tour

Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.

• Derry City Tour
• Free time in Derry City

• 15 attractions

A truly unique tour of Ireland. Visit the must-see attractions whilst discovering unique experiences beyond the tourist trail. All woven together by Ireland's historic castles.

• Pearse Lyons Distillery

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

• 8 attractions

Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.

• Derry City walking tour
• Ulster American Folk Park

9-Day Highlights of Ireland & Scotland Tour

Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.

• Cruise Loch Lomond
• Clydeside Distillery Tour
• Ferry to Belfast
• Glenshane Country Farm
• Giants Causeway
• Hillsborough Castle
• Carlingford Lough Ferry
• Farewell dinner and show

My Ireland Tour:

My Ireland Tour is a family business based right here in County Cork. Thanks for visiting our website: we're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the country we call home. As an independent Irish business, we're proud that we can give each guest the kind of service that has made us Ireland's top-rated tour operator. We hope to offer you a real Irish welcome soon. Our family business (My Ireland Tour Limited) is registered in Ireland, Company Number 547775.

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15 Day Ireland and Scotland Tour from Dublin to Edinburgh

15 days, 3 countries and 21 cities

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14 Breakfasts, 6 Dinners

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Travel to see the very Best of Ireland and Scotland, from delicate Waterford Crystal to the golfing greats of St. Andrews. Kiss the Blarney Stone and you’ll be sharing tales from Giant’s Causeway, the Ring of Kerry and the Scottish Highlands for years to come.

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15 days itinerary trip from Dublin to Edinburgh visiting 3 countries and 21 cities

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About this trip

Sightseeing highlights.

Explore Dublin, Londonderry, Belfast and Edinburgh

Discover Waterford, Adare, Galway and Glasgow

Visit the Irish National Stud near Kildare, the Waterford Crystal Showroom, Blarney Castle, Giant's Causeway, Titanic Experience in Belfast, a whisky distillery in Glasgow and Edinburg Castle

View Eilean Donan Castle, the battlefield of Culloden and the 18th green at St. Andrews

See St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin, Galway Cathedral and Loch Lomond in the Scottish Highlands

Scenic Drive of 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.

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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals

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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing

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

Ferry from Northern Ireland to Scotland

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

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Every one of our tours includes at least one conscious travel experience that supports one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGS). Look out for yours within the day-by-day trip itinerary.

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Every part of our business, from trip design to how we run our offices, aligns to our 5-year sustainability strategy which ensures a positive impact on people, the planet and wildlife.

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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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Summer rugby tours: Where are the home nations going this summer

By: Matt Hardy

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This summer the home nations – England, Wales, Scotland and the island of Ireland – will tour far-flung rugby nations.

Traditionally the home nations head to the southern hemisphere but this season the tours have been expanded ahead of a new men’s global competition, set to start in 2026.

So who is playing who, and where?

England on tour

England open their summer tour by making history in playing their first ever series Test against Japan in Japan.

It’ll be a rematch between Japan coach Eddie Jones and England boss Steve Borthwick – former colleagues at Japan – and it is the first time Jones has faced England since being sacked by the RFU.

But that’s not England’s tour in its entirety. Borthwick’s men will go on to face New Zealand in two Tests down in the Land of the Long White Cloud.

The touring side’s record down in New Zealand is dire, winning just one game this millennia.

But that is the challenge England face and these two Tests will really show where Borthwick’s men are as they look to string together a run of good results.

Summer lovin’ for Wales

Though they’re set to head to the southern hemisphere next month, Wales actually start their tour in London.

In a daunting Test they take on the world champions South Africa in London as part of a double header – alongside a match between the invitational Barbarians and Fiji.

But then their summer series really gets going, with two Tests down in Australia against the Wallabies.

With a new coach – former Ireland boss Joe Schmidt – at the helm Australia will pose a different threat to the side who rolled over for Wales at the Rugby World Cup.

Games in Sydney and Melbourne sets up Australia for next summer’s Lion tour, which they’ll be hosting across the summer of 2025.

They will also play the club side Queensland Reds on the tour.

The flowers of Scotland

Scotland’s tour sees them continent hop a little bit but they’ll be expecting a clean sweep of wins across the summer.

They start in Ottawa, playing Canada, before matches against the USA in Washington DC and Chile in Santiago.

They finish in Montevideo against Uruguay at the end of next month.

Scotland always seems to be building and building but the results, in the form of dominating series or winning the Six Nations never comes. They’ll be hoping that changes this summer.

Arguably the series of the summer, Ireland head down to fellow United Rugby Championship host country South Africa this summer.

Though it is disappointing to only see them play two Tests against each other, it should be an exciting prospect.

South Africa are double world champions but Ireland won the last time these two sides played each other – at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

So there’s unfinished business for the touring side while South Africa’s recently departed coaching guru Jacques Nienaber now coaches in Leinster.

Elsewhere in rugby

Elsewhere this summer Italy will face Samoa in Apia, Tonga in Nuku’alofa and Japan in Sapporo.

Fiji take on the Barbarians and New Zealand.

France face Argentina twice, and Uruguay.

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Election latest: Love Actually star backs Green candidate in key contest - as minister hints at bid to replace Sunak

Rishi Sunak's future as Tory leader is already being publicly speculated upon by a minister who could run for the job if the party loses the election. Meanwhile, the Greens have attracted a Hollywood endorsement - and Sky's Sophy Ridge has a fresh interview with Sir Keir Starmer.

Thursday 27 June 2024 20:08, UK

• General Election 2024

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• Starmer defends plan for VAT on private schools
• Analysis: Labour campaign has a central paradox
• Hugh Grant backs Greens co-leader in key contest
• Sunak won't say if he told aide election date before bet
• Exclusive: PM's top adviser interviewed by Gambling Commission
• Live reporting by Charlotte Chelsom-Pill and (earlier)  Ben Bloch

Election essentials

• Manifesto pledges: Conservatives | Greens | Labour | Lib Dems | Plaid | Reform | SNP
• Trackers:  Who's leading polls? | Is PM keeping promises?
• Campaign Heritage:  Memorable moments from elections gone by
• Follow Sky's politics podcasts:  Electoral Dysfunction | Politics At Jack And Sam's
• Read more:  Who is standing down? | Key seats to watch | What counts as voter ID? | Check if your constituency is changing | Guide to election lingo | How to watch election on Sky News

The panel discussion is now turning to the Conservative Party's election campaign. 

Sky's  election commentator  Adam Boulton   says it has been "dreadful", adding Rishi Sunak "hasn't brought anything to this campaign". 

A series of missteps have dominated the headlines from the outset when Mr Sunak announced the election in the pouring rain.

But as the campaign enters its final week there may now be a moment of respite for the Conservatives, Adam says. 

"Almost the best thing about this campaign is the most irritating for a lot of people," Adam says.

"He's timed it to coincide with the Euros, with Wimbledon, with Glastonbury, which actually means the last week, it'll have to be a pretty big gaffe for anyone to notice."

That brings tonight's Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge to an end - the show will return tomorrow with Ali Fortescue . In the meantime, stick with us here for more news and analysis through the evening.

By Ashna Hurynag , news correspondent

The battle for Scottish votes is all to play for.

An exclusive YouGov poll for Sky News has Labour on 35% in Scotland and the SNP on 29%.

The latter are closing the gap, but if all goes this way on the night, such a result would mean big gains for Labour.

But the biggest gutter punch is dealt to the Conservatives who YouGov has on 11% and level with the Lib Dems.

But attitudes change when voters consider where to cast their ballot in the 2026 Holyrood elections.

As of the 18 June, voter intentions shifted to 28% for the SNP, 24% Labour, 10% Conservatives and 7% for the Lib Dems.

This tells us Scots treat UK and Scottish elections differently. 

It also suggests the former creating an opportunity for a protest vote - a cry of frustration at 14 years of Tory governments at Westminster, or the firing of a warning shot at the SNP’s record after 17 years at Holyrood.

But so many are still undecided.

1,059 people over 16 were surveyed by YouGov between the 20 and 25 June, exclusively for Sky News, and 14% of people surveyed have changed how they plan to vote over the past four weeks.

Of those, 37% say it was down to how the parties and their leaders have conducted themselves.

The NHS and health care are the key issues, followed by the cost of living next, the economy in general, immigration, and Scottish independence.

Rishi Sunak's most senior adviser in Downing Street has been interviewed in the investigation into bets by Conservatives on the date of the general election.

Liam Booth-Smith, Downing Street chief of staff, was interviewed last week by senior Gambling Commission officials and questioned about who knew about the timing of the election.

Sources have emphasised to Sky News that Mr Booth-Smith is not a suspect in the gambling investigation and was interviewed as a witness and was "asked for help".

Described as the prime minister's most trusted ally, Mr Booth-Smith has worked for Mr Sunak since he was chancellor, when his fondness for leather jackets earned him the nickname "the Treasury Travolta".

According to a Gambling Commission insider, Mr Booth-Smith was interviewed by "senior officials within the Gambling Commission, more senior than investigators".

Sky News has also been told there are currently no plans to interview the prime minister as part of the investigation into bets on the election date.

Read more here:

Sir Keir Starmer's interview with Sophy Ridge hits on the central paradox of the Labour campaign, Sky's deputy political editor Sam Coates says. 

Sam says there is an "incredibly high level of ambition" in Labour's "chunky manifesto" and the "rhetoric couldn't be bigger".

And yet, "the first steps that take you to the missions are small". 

Sam adds that what we may discover should Labour form the next government is that "we don't know what the second and third and the fourth step are going to be". 

Sky's election commentator Adam Boulton adds that Sir Keir was "not overpromising in any area, but making it clear he has his priorities".

"I think people going to have to get used to this. He is going to be someone who sticks to his course," Adam adds.

"He's going to be quite deliberate in his approach."

Sophy ends the interview by asking Sir Keir which is more likely -  Labour winning the election or England winning the Euros. 

He replies: "Well, I can't have both I don't suppose?"

More seriously, he adds the "more important one is winning the election".

"But don't let that be any sort of reflection... I say get behind the team when it comes to England and the players."

Despite topping their group, some fans have been left disappointed by England's Euros performance.

Earlier, Sir Keir told Channel 5 News's Dan Walker he believes England will still be in the competition by the time the election comes round on 4 July.

He said England normally start "a bit wobbly in these competitions" but have a "brilliant set of players", adding that he's "backing them all the way".

An "element" of the backlash against Labour's plans to impose VAT on private schools is driven by those in Westminster and the media with ties to such schools, Sir Keir Starmer tells  Sophy Ridge . 

He was responding to a question on whether criticism over the policy - which Sophy says polls quite well - has been because there are so many in Westminster and the media who either went to a private school or send their children to one. 

"I think there's an element of that," he says.

Private schools 'will adapt'

Addressing the criticism, the Labour leader says there is "no evidence" private schools will be forced to close due to the plans.

"I think they will adapt," he said. "They've had lots of increases in costs over the last 14 years, and they've accommodated it.

"There's no evidence to show these schools will close. They don't have to pass the cost onto parents."

He added: "It's a difficult choice. But they're businesses in the end, and they're very successful in the round.

"I want them to thrive. But we need to make this choice, because in the end, if I want the teachers we need in our state secondary schools, I have to answer the question you would put to me, just how are you going to pay for that?

"You're going to pay for that by getting rid of the tax breaks for private schools, and use it to invest in the teachers we need in our state secondaries."

You can read more on Sir Keir's exchange with Sophy on Labour's policy to see VAT applied to private schools here:

Sir Keir Starmer tells  Sophy Ridge  Labour are "ready" for government as he reveals what puts a spring in his step. 

Sophy asks him what keeps him going during the election campaign after Rishi Sunak said he gets through an "enormous" amount of sugar. 

"Coffee. Coffee. And then some more coffee," Sir Keir says. 

He adds that he's "not a big one for snacks", but is partial to "cheese sandwiches and tuna sandwiches" in the back of the Labour bus. 

"It's the high life, isn't it," he jokes.

'We're campaigning with a smile'

Asked whether he was still enjoying the campaign, he says: "Yeah. Four and a half years we've been working for this.

"I woke up with a smile on my face on 1 January because I knew we'd have an election this year.

"We're really pleased to be able to take this argument to the country. We're ready for this. We've got a positive offer to put for the country. 

"So we're campaigning with a smile and a spring in our step."

Plans to create tens of thousands of extra appointments to get NHS waiting lists down would be Labour's first priority in government, Sir Keir Starmer tells Sky's  Sophy Ridge  in the latest of her general election leaders interviews.

He also lists the recruitment of teachers and setting up Great British Energy among the top items on Labour's to-do list should they win the election on 4 July. 

He says Labour has "ambitious" plans to "hit the ground running", with many people feeling the country "has been left broken".

"Our job will be to come in to fix that," he adds.

"The first steps are going to be putting in place the plans for 40,000 extra appointments in the NHS to get the waiting list down each week. That's two million a year."

'Are you going to waste the opportunity?'

He describes these first steps as the  " down payment on the bigger change we need across the country".

Sophy puts to him polls are suggesting Sir Keir is about to be gifted a historic majority - the kind which in 1945 saw Labour prime minister Clement Attlee create the NHS.

She says his first steps seem quite small, asking "are you going to waste the opportunity?"

Sir Keir says his plans are "a first step to an NHS which is fit for the next 75/76 years". 

"I want to make sure that in the 50, 60, 70 years, people are celebrating the fact an incoming Labour government in 2024 made sure the NHS was not something you look proudly back on, but actually fit for the future."

One week today, Britain will be voting for the party they want to form the next government - and the person they want to be prime minister. ​

It's almost certain to be Sir Keir Starmer. 

Currently the leader of the Labour Party, by the end of next week he will very probably be our prime minister.

Today I sat down with him at a pottery factory in Stoke - where he stamped clay pots with his Change logo - and talked to me about everything from the NHS to climate change, private schools to the England Euros team.

We'll bring it to you here in the Politics Hub.

Our weeknight politics show  Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge  is live now on Sky News.

The fast-paced programme dissects the inner workings of Westminster, with interviews, insights, and analysis - bringing you, the audience, into the corridors of power.

Tonight, Sophy is joined by Labour's  Sir Keir Starmer  for the latest of her general election leaders interviews.

On Sophy's panel tonight are:

• Adam Boulton , Sky election commentator;
• Salma Shah , former Home Office adviser;
• Patrick Diamond , former head of policy planning under Tony Blair.

Watch live on Sky News, in the stream at the top of this page, and follow live updates here in the Politics Hub.

Watch  Politics Hub With Sophy Ridge  from Monday to Thursday on Sky channel 501, Virgin channel 602, Freeview channel 233, on the  Sky News website  and  app  or on  YouTube .

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Ireland, Scotland and Wales Tours & Trips

• Choose from 6 Ireland, Scotland and Wales tours
• 24 verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
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6 best Ireland, Scotland and Wales tour packages

Compiled by

Steff Ireland, Scotland and Wales travel expert at TourRadar

Extensive United Kingdom and Ireland ( 17 days )

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• In-depth Cultural
• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

• Explore the picturesque countryside of Britain and Ireland
• Visit the birthplace of the legendary William Shakespeare
• Marvel at the waters and mountains of the Lake District

“So much to see, and never enough time. But everything that I saw and everywhere I went was necessary.”

“It's definitely a good tour for an introduction to the UK.”

“A very good intro to the UK and Ireland highlighted by very interesting stops with time enough to wet one's appetite.”

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