SHORTLIST

Britain and Ireland Grandeur

There’s more to most UK and Ireland trips than the iconic sights. On this journey, you’ll trace the footsteps of giants and feel the salty spray of the Cliffs of Moher, smell the mossy walls of medieval castles and enjoy a t-tapping, heart-stirring Gaelic song along the way.
Sightseeing highlights
  • Explore Londonderry, Belfast, Dublin and Edinburgh
  • Discover Plymouth, Bath, Cardiff, Limerick, Galway, Sligo, Chester, Glasgow and York
  • Visit the ancient stone circle at Stonehenge, the Roman Baths in Bath, the Waterford Crystal Showroom, Blarney Castle, the Cliffs of Moher, the Giant's Causeway, Guinness Storehouse in Dublin, Falkirk Wheel in Falkirk, Isle of Skye, Edinburgh Castle, Alnwick, and Shakespeare's Birthplace in Stratford-upon-Avon
  • View the Mayflower Steps in Plymouth, the Principality Stadium in Cardiff, King John's Castle in Limerick, the 18th hole at St. Andrews, Eilean Donan Castle, Culloden Battlefield, and York Minster in York
  • See Galway Cathedral
  • Scenic Drive on a Cornish Excursion, experience the Ring of Kerry
  • Tickets for the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates
Iconic Experience
  • Stonehenge: Walk around the strange and awe-inspiring monoliths that have reputedly stood for 5,000 years.
  • Cornwall: See Plymouth's famed landmarks and explore typical seaside villages during an orientation of the Cornish peninsula.
  • Bath: Admire UNESCO-listed Bath, with its elegant Georgian façades and the bimillennial Roman Baths from which the city takes its name.
  • Cardiff: Learn more about Wales' capital and cultural hub, Cardiff, as you enjoy an orientation of this vibrant city with your Travel Director.
  • Blarney: It is said that those who kiss the Blarney Stone are bestowed with the power to persuade, flatter and coax. But to do so, you must dangle from the ramparts! Visit Blarney Castle and see the famous Stone of Eloquence.
  • Ring of Kerry: Admire Ireland's enduring scenic beauty on one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
  • Lahinch: Help preserve the Cliffs of Moher for generations to come and learn about its extraordinary geology, history and the species that find sanctuary in its nooks and crannies.
  • Limerick: See Limerick's iconic landmarks during an orientation with your Travel Director.
  • Sligo Bay: Explore this scenic town during an orientation with your Travel Director.
  • Londonderry: With a Local Specialist explore inside the city walls. See the Gothic Guildhall and the Georgian houses of Shipquay Street.
  • Belfast: Join a Local Specialist to hear about the history of the city and learn of its progress and current prosperity. See the murals in different locations indicating the political sentiments of local residents.
  • Dublin: A Local Specialist will show you Dublin's elegant Georgian squares, O'Connell Street and the Custom House.
  • Chester: See the Jubilee Clock, cathedral, city walls, and famous black and white Rows.
  • Lake District: Drive through the hauntingly beautiful Lakes District, immortalised by literary greats of the Romantic Movement.
  • Glasgow: See the grand public buildings of Glasgow, including George Square.
  • Gretna Green: Visit the famous spot where runaway lovers were married.
  • Glenc: Drive through this Highland village on Loch Leven.
  • Eilean Donan: Stop for a photo of this gorgeous castle.
  • Scottish Highlands: Admire picturesque lochs and glens as you travel through the Scottish Highlands.
  • Inverness: At the exciting Culloden Visitor Centre, discover why the Battle of Culloden lasted only an hour yet changed the Highland way of life forever.
  • St. Andrews: Visit the university town where the famous beach scene from 'Chariots of Fire' was filmed and see the golf course where the sport was created.
  • Edinburgh: Explore the city with your Local Specialist as you travel along Princes Street to see the Scott Memorial, the neoclassical Adam facades of New Town and the official Scottish residence of the King, Palace of Holyroodhouse.
  • York: Your Travel Director will show you the York Minster, the city walls and the medieval Shambles during your orientation of the city.
  • Alnwick: See the impressive Alnwick Castle and Tenantry Column during a visit of this traditional county town.
  • Stratford-upon-Avon: Learn about the life of William Shakespeare, arguably history's most famous writer, when you visit his birthplace. Then enjoy some time to explore this pretty town with its iconic Tudor houses.
Dive Into Culture
  • Waterford: Learn how crystal is crafted at the House of Waterford Crystal during a workshop tour.
  • Dublin: Visit the Guinness Storehouse to see how the world’s most famous stout is created then enjoy the distinctive taste of a perfectly chilled pint of Guinness.
  • Falkirk: Visit Falkirk Wheel to learn about Scotland's canal system at the world's only rotating boat lift.
Tour details
Tour Provider Trafalgar
Price From
$9,966
Number of Days
20
Start Location
London, United Kingdom
End Location
London, United Kingdom
Age Range
Avg. 45+
Group Size
20 to 45
Tour Style
Comfort
Tour Themes
No specific theme
Physical Rating
Easy to Moderate
Itinerary Open all
Journey to Stonehenge and on to Plymouth
Journey west where you’ll ponder the myths of the ancient mystical megaliths at Stonehenge which remain largely unsolved to to this day. Continuing through Devon, arrive in the historic naval port of Plymouth, your home for the next two nights.
Discover the Cornish Peninsula
Embark on an orientation tour and see the Royal Citadel and Mayflower Steps. Explore the Cornish peninsula and visit the seaside villages of Lo and Polperro.
Soak up Bath and off to Cardiff
Arriving in Bath, we admire the city's stylish Georgian façades and visit the ancient Roman Baths from which it derives its name. We continue to the vibrant Welsh capital, Cardiff, where we’ll have a free evening to enjoy this modern city's proud heritage.
Cross the Irish Sea to Waterford
This morning, see Cardiff's iconic sights – the Principality Stadium, Millennium Centre and Victorian fantasy castle before crossing the Irish Sea to Waterford, most famous for the delicate crystal that graces elegant homes the world over. This evening, dine in your hotel.
Onwards to Blarney and Killarney Dive Into Culture
First stop today is at the House of Waterford Crystal where you will Dive Into Culture, watching a demonstration with a master crafter. In pursuit of the ‘gift of the gab', journey to Blarney Castle where you'll have the chance to kiss the Blarney Stone, before arriving later in picturesque Killarney.
A Day on the Ring of Kerry
Ireland's enduring natural beauty accompanies your leisurely drive circling the enchanting Ring of Kerry. Pass the fishing village of Waterville, Moll's Gap and the Black Valley – renowned for being the last place in Ireland without power and telephone networks.
Off to Limerick, the Majestic Cliffs of Moher and Galway Make Travel Matter
Stop in Limerick and view St. Mary's Cathedral, the Treaty Stone and King John's Castle. Next up is an unforgettable experience at the Cliffs of Moher where rugged cliffs plunge into the Atlantic, creating a beautifully dramatic coastline which has inspired artists, musicians and pts for centuries. You’ll visit the Visitor Centre, a wonderfully engaging experience which brings one of Ireland’s most treasured natural phenomena to life in an interactive way that will leave you with stories to tell for years to come. Enjoy the IMAX-type multimedia which gives visitors a bird’s eye view of the cliffs or dive virtually beneath the surface of the Atlantic and into the underwater caves at the foot of the cliffs that would have otherwise gone unseen. Your next overnight stop in Galway is a real treat for culture buffs. Ireland’s capital of music, song and dance and it’s the perfect place to dig deep into Ireland’s vibrant traditional arts scene first-hand.
Venture into County Donegal
This morning see the great stone Galway Cathedral and stroll through Eyre Square, a tribute to former US president John F. Kennedy, who visited Galway in 1963. Enjoy an orientation of Sligo on your way to Donegal to see its 15th-century castle and explore the town your way before dining at your hotel.
Explore Londonderry, the Giant’s Causeway and Belfast Make Travel Matter
Cross the Irish border into Northern Ireland, joining a Local Specialist in Londonderry to stroll along its 17th-century city walls. See the street murals of the Bogside before continuing to the mythical stepping stones of the Giant's Causeway for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Your visit to the haunt of Finn McCool will help to conserve this iconic natural landmark. The final stop today is in Belfast, where you'll enjoy an orientation, followed by free time to explore the capital city's sights.
On the road to Dublin
Spend the morning with a Local Specialist 'Cabbie' on a journey through the recent history of Belfast in their taxi. Heading south to Dublin later, see St. Patrick's Cathedral and other iconic sights in the company of a Local Specialist. Tonight, consider an Optional Experience to enjoy the rousing sounds and warm hospitality of a traditional Irish Cabaret performance.
See the Sights of Dublin Dive Into Culture
Today you'll gain entry to the Guinness Storehouse. Here you’ll Dive Into Culture and embark on a self-guided tour finishing at the Gravity Bar where you can sip on a pint of the black stuff while overlooking Dublin. The rest of the day is yours to explore the Irish capital. Amble along Grafton Street with its colourful performers, head to Temple Bar or stroll through St. Stephen's Green.
Ferry across to Historic Chester and Liverpool
Cross the Irish Sea to Wales and continue to the ancient town of Chester, where your orientation tour will take you past its Roman walls and famous half-timbered Tudor Rows. Later, head to the haunt of the 'Fab Four', edgy Liverpool, where you'll spend the night.
Continue to the Beautiful Lake District
Head north to the idyllic Lake District, which has inspired pts and writers for centuries, and admire the spectacular surrounds of Lake Windermere.
Journey North to Glasgow Dive Into Culture
The runaway wedding capital, Gretna Green is your first stop today, where you'll tread in the footsteps of eloping couples who would take their vows over the Marriage Anvil. Next, visit the Falkirk Wheel where you’ll Dive into Culture learning about the legacy of Scotland’s canals and experience the world’s only rotating boat lift. Continue to Glasgow for an orientation tour including views of the Cathedral and magnificent George Square, lined with statues of Great Britain's most celebrated sons.
Over the Sea to Skye
Journey past the site of the tragic 1692 massacre at Glenc, known as the 'Glen of the Weeping' and see Britain's highest mountain – Ben Nevis. View the 13th-century Eilean Donan Castle, where three lochs meet, before visiting the Isle of Skye.
The Sights of Loch Ness and Culloden in the Scottish Highlands
Travel through the scenic Scottish Highlands via Glen Shiel and along the banks of Loch Ness, home to the mythical monster affectionately known as 'Nessie'. View the site of the bloody Battle of Culloden, where Bonnie Prince Charlie and his army of Jacobites were defeated in 1746.
Onwards to Edinburgh
Continue south and stop in Pitlochry before travelling to the historic town of St. Andrews, home to the oldest golf course in the world. Cross the Firth of Forth to the enchanting Scottish capital, Edinburgh, your home for the next two nights. Tickets to see the spectacular Edinburgh Tattoo are included on departures that coincide with performance dates.
Explore Edinburgh Castle
Join a Local Specialist for a sightseeing tour including a visit to Edinburgh Castle, overlooking the town from Castle Rock. See the Royal Mile, Palace of Holyroodhouse and new Scottish Parliament building.
Uncover York’s Treasures Connect with Locals
Visit the medieval market town of Alnwick before stopping in York where you'll embark on an orientation walk along the picturesque Shambles and to York Minster, one of the greatest cathedrals in the world. This evening, Connect With Locals over dinner at a Be My Guest experience, a grand private home of a Yorkshire family enjoying traditional flavours and hospitality.
Journey to Stratford-upon-Avon and on to London
Travel to Stratford-upon-Avon to view Anne Hathaway's thatched cottage and visit Shakespeare's Birthplace and Visitor Centre before returning to London.
Inclusions
  • 8 Dinner (D)
  • 19 Breakfast (B)
  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • London: The services of a Trafalgar Local Host when you stay at Trafalgar's recommended London hotel
  • London: Pick-up and drop-off when you stay at the Trafalgar recommended London hotel, booked through Trafalgar
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • All porterage and restaurant gratuities
  • All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
  • Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
  • Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
  • Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
  • Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
  • Return ferry across the Irish Sea between Wales and Ireland
  • Optional Experiences and free time
  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
Departure dates
All pp pricing is based on twin share occupancy. Single supplements will apply
Start End Availability Price NZD
29 Mar 2025 17 Apr 2025 onRequest $11,095
12 Apr 2025 01 May 2025 Available $11,095
19 Apr 2025 08 May 2025 onRequest $11,325
26 Apr 2025 15 May 2025 Available $9,966
10 May 2025 29 May 2025 onRequest $11,325
17 May 2025 05 Jun 2025 Available $11,325
24 May 2025 12 Jun 2025 onRequest $9,966
31 May 2025 19 Jun 2025 Available $10,054
07 Jun 2025 26 Jun 2025 Available $11,425
14 Jun 2025 03 Jul 2025 onRequest $11,425
21 Jun 2025 10 Jul 2025 Available $11,425
28 Jun 2025 17 Jul 2025 Available $10,116
05 Jul 2025 24 Jul 2025 Available $11,495
12 Jul 2025 31 Jul 2025 Available $10,340
19 Jul 2025 07 Aug 2025 Available $10,644
20 Jul 2025 08 Aug 2025 Available $10,644
26 Jul 2025 14 Aug 2025 Available $10,644
27 Jul 2025 15 Aug 2025 Available $12,095
02 Aug 2025 21 Aug 2025 Available $12,095
09 Aug 2025 28 Aug 2025 onRequest $10,644
16 Aug 2025 04 Sep 2025 onRequest $10,644
30 Aug 2025 18 Sep 2025 Available $11,450
06 Sep 2025 25 Sep 2025 Available $11,450
13 Sep 2025 02 Oct 2025 Available $11,450
20 Sep 2025 09 Oct 2025 Available $11,375
27 Sep 2025 16 Oct 2025 Available $11,350
28 Mar 2026 16 Apr 2026 Available $11,675
04 Apr 2026 23 Apr 2026 Available $11,675
11 Apr 2026 30 Apr 2026 Available $11,675
18 Apr 2026 07 May 2026 Available $11,925
25 Apr 2026 14 May 2026 Available $11,925
02 May 2026 21 May 2026 Available $11,925
09 May 2026 28 May 2026 Available $11,925
16 May 2026 04 Jun 2026 Available $11,925
23 May 2026 11 Jun 2026 Available $11,925
30 May 2026 18 Jun 2026 Available $12,025
06 Jun 2026 25 Jun 2026 Available $12,025
13 Jun 2026 02 Jul 2026 Available $12,025
20 Jun 2026 09 Jul 2026 Available $12,025
27 Jun 2026 16 Jul 2026 Available $12,095
04 Jul 2026 23 Jul 2026 Available $12,095
11 Jul 2026 30 Jul 2026 Available $12,375
12 Jul 2026 31 Jul 2026 Available $12,375
18 Jul 2026 06 Aug 2026 Available $12,750
19 Jul 2026 07 Aug 2026 Available $12,750
25 Jul 2026 13 Aug 2026 Available $12,750
26 Jul 2026 14 Aug 2026 Available $12,750
01 Aug 2026 20 Aug 2026 Available $12,750
02 Aug 2026 21 Aug 2026 Available $12,750
08 Aug 2026 27 Aug 2026 Available $12,750
15 Aug 2026 03 Sep 2026 Available $12,750
22 Aug 2026 10 Sep 2026 Available $12,050
29 Aug 2026 17 Sep 2026 Available $12,050
05 Sep 2026 24 Sep 2026 Available $12,050
12 Sep 2026 01 Oct 2026 Available $12,050
19 Sep 2026 08 Oct 2026 Available $11,975
26 Sep 2026 15 Oct 2026 Available $11,950