Elife Travel - Europe Tours - England Tours - Greater London Tours - In-depth Cultural Tours - The British Isles in Depth

The British Isles in Depth

Name: The British Isles in Depth
Brand: Elife Travel
Price: 5559 USD
Availability: InStock

Country:

England

Flight:

Not included

Favorite

Tour id:

84478

Operator:

Cosmos
Length:

23 days
Group size:

50 pax
Age:

5 to 99
Difficulty:
Difficulty levels:
- Relaxing
- Easy
- Moderate
- Serious
- Heart-pumping

31.08-22.09.25 guaranteed
07.09-29.09.25 guaranteed
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28.09-20.10.25 guaranteed
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Itinerary

From the lively cities to the breathtaking scenery, you’ll discover the best of England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and Northern Ireland on this in-depth Britain and Ireland tour.

Britain and Ireland are known for their breathtaking scenery, and this tour will not disappoint. You’ll see the 100-mile Ring of Kerry, with its rugged and magnificent landscapes; stunning scenery on Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula; the spectacular 668-foot Cliffs of Moher; Northern Ireland’s awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, formed millions of years ago; and Brecon Beacons National Park, with its dramatic landscapes. Enjoy time in the Scottish Highlands, filled with dramatic landscapes, rolling farmland, picturesque seaside towns, and beautiful lochs (lakes).

Britain and Ireland are also known for their picturesque and historic towns and cities. On this Britain and Ireland tour, you’ll visit many of these towns, including Oxford, home to some of England’s most famous colleges; Stratford-upon-Avon, where you’ll get a glimpse into life in 16th-century England in Shakespeare’s hometown; York, England's most complete medieval city with its cobbled streets and the magnificent York Minster, England’s largest Gothic cathedral; Berwick-upon-Tweed, a peaceful coastal town with a turbulent past; Strathpeffer, known in its Victorian heyday as a spa resort; Looe, a pretty fishing village; the seaside town of Tramore; Bath, known for the excavations of Roman baths used for bathing and socializing 2,000 years ago; and many more. You’ll also visit the capitals—London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Dublin, and Belfast.

These are just some of the many highlights of this tour through the British Isles. For value-minded vacationers, this is the perfect way to see England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and Northern Ireland!

From the lively cities to the breathtaking scenery, you’ll discover the best of England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and Northern Ireland on this in-depth Britain and Ireland tour!

Tour program

Day 1

ARRIVE IN LONDON, ENGLAND

Check into your hotel. In the afternoon, there’s time to rest or to start exploring the lively British capital; uniformed hosts are available to help you make the most of your stay.

Day 2

LONDON

What’s your pleasure? Today is devoted to exploring on your own or enjoying our exciting program of optional activities. London’s calling with an optional morning sightseeing tour with a Local Guide to see the city’s famous landmarks: the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben beside the River Thames, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall's mounted horseguards and the Prime Minister's Downing Street, Piccadilly Circus, and Buckingham Palace. The highlight is a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece built between 1675 and 1708. This afternoon, maybe visit Windsor Castle or the Tower of London with its spectacular Crown Jewels. And this evening we recommend a traditional dining experience followed by a guided nighttime cruise along the Thames River to see some of the capital's most beautiful, illuminated sights. (B)

Day 3

LONDON–OXFORD–STRATFORD-UPON-AVON–LEEDS

Meet your Tour Director and travel companions and depart at 8 am for a memorable day of sightseeing, including a walking tour of Oxford, one of the country’s oldest seats of learning; then, skirt the Cotswold Hills to Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon. Take photos of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and explore the town at your own pace. Overnight in Leeds. (B,D)
Today’s Distance: 249 mi/ 400 km

Day 4

LEEDS–YORK–NEWCASTLE

This morning, head north to York, England’s most complete medieval city. Stand in awe in front of the great structure of York Minster, then follow your Tour Director through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles. Stop for the night in Newcastle, once an important hub for the wool trade and coal mining and now a vibrant, modern city. (B)
Today’s Distance: 108 mi/ 174 km

Day 5

NEWCASTLE–JEDBURGH, SCOTLAND–EDINBURGH

See a section of Hadrian’s Wall, then motor through wild Northumberland National Park to the Scottish border. Stop for photos at Jedburgh before arriving in Edinburgh. Here, sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town”. In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels. No trip to Scotland is complete without an authentic Scottish evening! Join an optional night out filled with traditional food, drinks, singers, dancers, bagpipes, and, of course, the unforgettable Ceremony of the Haggis! For departures July 27th, August 3rd, August 10th and August 17th, tickets are included for tonight’s performance of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. (B)
Today's Distance: 117 mi/188 km

Day 6

EDINBURGH

Your choice of optional excursions today: this morning put on your best detective hat and get ready to decipher the cryptic symbols and spellbinding mysteries of 15th-century Rosslyn Chapel, one of Scotland's most enigmatic places. This afternoon, get the royal treatment and discover what life was like on board Her Majesty's floating residence during an exciting visit of the Royal Yacht Britannia, followed by dinner with wine at an excellent local restaurant! (B)

Day 7

EDINBURGH–ST. ANDREWS–PITLOCHRY–CULLODEN MOOR–INVERNESS–STRATHPEFFER

A day of memorable sightseeing. Take the elegant Forth Road Bridge to St. Andrews, whose Royal and Ancient Golf Club has given us the rules of golfing, then cross the Firth of Tay and, via Dundee and Perth, head into the Highlands, with a stop in the Victorian mountain resort of Pitlochry. Cross the battlefield of Culloden Moor with its memories of Bonnie Prince Charlie, then via Inverness, head for your Highland destination. (B,D)
Today’s Distance: 221 mi/ 355 km

Day 8

STRATHPEFFER. WEST COAST EXCURSION

More spectacular Scottish scenery: Dornoch Firth, the Kyle of Sutherland, the Falls of Shin, the Mountains of Assynt, and Knockan Crag. Then, follow Strath Oykel for a visit to Ullapool, a remote fishing harbor on Loch Broom, before returning along Loch Glascarnoch. This afternoon, we recommend an optional to join the hunt for Nessie! First visit the Loch Ness Centre before joining a cruise on the loch to hunt for the famous “water beast.” Supper rounds it all off. (B)
Today’s Distance: 123 mi/ 198 km

Day 9

STRATHPEFFER–FORT WILLIAM–GLASGOW

More heather-clad moors as you drive through the western Highlands all the way to Fort William beneath Ben Nevis. Glen Coe, where the MacDonald Clan was massacred in 1692, and a drive along the “Bonnie Banks” of Loch Lomond are scenic highlights on the way to Glasgow, Scotland’s great cultural city. (B)
Today’s Distance: 183 mi/ 295 km

Day 10

GLASGOW–ALLOWAY–BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND

On this morning’s orientation drive through Scotland’s largest city, see the fine 12th-century cathedral, imposing university buildings, and elegant Georgian squares, built by wealthy tobacco barons. Later, stop at Alloway, the birthplace of Robert Burns, before boarding the ferry for the Irish Sea, crossing to Belfast. (B)
Today’s Distance: 100 mi/ 160 km

Day 11

BELFAST–GIANT’S CAUSEWAY–DERRY–SLIGO, IRELAND

Take the scenic route along the Antrim Coast to awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, then let the province’s story unfold as you head for the city of Derry. Arrive in Sligo, tonight’s destination. (B,D)
Today’s Distance: 203 mi/ 327 km

Day 12

SLIGO–GALWAY–CLIFFS OF MOHER–SHANNON

Travel south to Galway, a popular seaside destination and a buzzing cosmopolitan district with vibrant shops and a busy café and bar culture. Then, cross the limestone plateau of The Burren to visit the spectacular 668-foot Cliffs of Moher. Everyone’s Irish with an optional banquet at an original Irish medieval castle. Enjoy a 4-course feast with wine, then relax as your medieval hosts dazzle you with unforgettable music and storytelling. (B)
Today’s Distance: 181 mi/ 291 km

Day 13

SHANNON–DINGLE PENINSULA–KILLARNEY

Via Adare and Tralee into County Kerry. Breathtaking scenery this afternoon on the Dingle Peninsula, where the 32-mile Slea Head drive affords magnificent vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Afternoon arrival in Killarney, your destination for the next two nights. (B,D)
Today’s Distance: 171 mi/ 275 km

Day 14

KILLARNEY. RING OF KERRY EXCURSION

At Killorglin, join the road known as the Ring of Kerry for a 100-mile coastal panoramic drive featuring sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly painted farmhouses, winding lanes bordered with subtropical vegetation, and spectacular views of the Lakes of Killarney. Climb aboard a delightful optional horse-drawn jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park to legendary Ross Castle on the shores of Lough Leane. (B)
Today’s Distance: 100 mi / 160 km

Day 15

KILLARNEY–BLARNEY–DUNGARVAN–TRAMORE

More scenic beauty as you head into County Cork. Stop in Blarney, famous for its Stone of Eloquence, with time at your leisure to see the castle, and shop for Irish crafts and handmade crystal. After lunch, drive past Cork, the country’s second-largest city. Finally, pass Dungarvan and travel along the Copper Coast to the seaside resort of Tramore. Enjoy a bit of craic (conversation) with an early evening optional of authentic Irish local flavor. Take a scenic drive to a traditional pub with a local musician ready to entertain you and give you wonderful memories of this beautiful country. Two drinks of your choice are included. (B,D)
Today’s Distance: 131 mi/ 211 km

Day 16

TRAMORE–WATERFORD–KILKENNY–DUBLIN

On your northbound journey pause in Waterford, famous for its exquisite crystal, and visit Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s prettiest towns with medieval cobblestone streets and Old-World charm. Learn an Irish toast or two on a popular optional outing to the legendary Taylors Irish Cabaret, featuring a delicious dinner, drinks, and outstanding Irish music, dance, and comedy. (B)
Today’s Distance: 128 mi/ 205 km

Day 17

DUBLIN

A day in the “Fair City” starts off with an orientation drive through Ireland’s capital and includes statue-lined O’Connell Street, elegant Georgian squares, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The rest of the day is free to enjoy Dublin at leisure. This evening, raise a glass on an optional excursion to learn about the history, traditions, and brewing techniques behind one of the world's most popular beers on this fascinating tour, tasting and dinner at Dublin's legendary Guinness Storehouse. (B)

Day 18

DUBLIN–CAERNARFON, WALES–LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND

Take the ferry across the Irish Sea to Holyhead on the Welsh Isle of Anglesey with its tongue-twisting names. Explore North Wales on the way to Caernarfon where the castle saw the investiture of Charles as Prince of Wales, before arriving in Liverpool. (B)
Today’s Distance: 130 mi/ 209 km

Day 19

LIVERPOOL–BUILTH WELLS, WALES–BRECON–CARDIFF

A day dedicated to Wales as you head south through the ancient market town of Builth Wells and Brecon Beacons National Park, land of salmon rivers and the Welsh mountain pony. In Cardiff, an orientation drive takes in Cathays Park with its splendid civic buildings and Cardiff Castle. Experience Welsh culture at its finest during this memorable optional excursion featuring a dinner of local specialties, and wine. (B)
Today’s Distance: 184 mi/ 296 km

Day 20

CARDIFF–BATH, ENGLAND–GLASTONBURY–WIDECOMBE–PLYMOUTH

Across the Severn Bridge to the elegant Georgian city of Bath, famed for its Roman relics. Into the West Country via Glastonbury and its legends of King Arthur, and wild and romantic Dartmoor with a visit to the picture-book village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Upon arrival in Plymouth, hear about Sir Francis Drake and see the Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers embarked in 1620. (B,D)
Today’s Distance: 198 mi/ 319 km

Day 21

PLYMOUTH. LOOE EXCURSION

Today’s excursion takes you to the pretty fishing village and former smuggler’s port of Looe. Then, follow in the footsteps of Drake, Raleigh, and the Pilgrim Fathers on an optional cruise on Plymouth Sound, one of the world’s greatest natural harbors. (B)
Today’s Distance: 45 mi/ 65 km

Day 22

PLYMOUTH–STONEHENGE–LONDON

An interesting day heading into Thomas Hardy’s Wessex and a visit to intriguing, prehistoric Stonehenge. Explore the visitor center with its imaginative exhibitions, then admire the magnificence of the monument up close. Return to London in the early evening. How about celebrating the success of your tour with a night on the town? Curtain’s up with an optional escorted evening in London's theater district, starting with a delicious dinner, followed by excellent seats at your chosen show. (B)
Today’s Distance: 215 mi/ 346 km

Day 23

LONDON

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

Tour Details

accommodation

LONDON: Holiday Inn London Kensington (F) or Novotel London West (F)
COVENTRY: Jurys Inn Hinckley Island (F) at Hinckley
NEWCASTLE: Jurys Inn (F)
EDINBURGH: Capital (F) or Kings Manor (ST)
STRATHPEFFER: Ben Wyvis (ST)
GLASGOW: Pond (F)
BELFAST: Jurys Inn (F)
SLIGO: Southern (F)
ENNIS: Auburn Lodge (ST)
KILLARNEY: Holiday Inn (F)
TRAMORE: Majestic (ST)
DUBLIN: Regency (ST)
WREXHAM: Ramada Plaza (F)
CARDIFF: Novotel (F)
PLYMOUTH: Jurys Inn (F)
BRIGHTON: Jurys Inn (F)

flights

International flights are not included.

guide

Host Service in London

insurance

Insurance is not included. Travel insurance is required for this tour. Please make sure you are adequately covered.

meals

Full English breakfast daily, 6 Dinners

optional

Royal Yacht Britannia Excursion and Dinner

Edinburgh

3h 30m

Discover what life was like on board Her Majesty's floating residence during an exciting visit of the Royal Yacht Britannia, followed by dinner with wine at an excellent local restaurant!

Price Range: $$ ($51 - $100 USD)

Loch Ness Experience and Supper

Strathpeffer

3h 30m

The history, legends, and utter majesty of Scotland's most famous lake are revealed on this half-day discovery featuring the Loch Ness Centre, a scenic cruise, and dinner!

Price Range: $$ ($51 - $100 USD)

Jaunting Car Ride

Killarney

1h 0m

Bask in the scenic treasures of Killarney during a delightful horse-drawn jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park to legendary Ross Castle on the shores of Lough Leane.

Price Range: $ ($50 USD and under)

Pub Evening

Tramore

2h 0m

For local Irish flavor, take a scenic drive to a traditional pub with a local musician ready to entertain you and give you wonderful memories of this beautiful country. Two drinks of your choice are included.

Price Range: $ ($50 USD and under)

Taylors Irish Cabaret

Dublin

3h 0m

You won't want to miss this popular outing to the legendary Taylors Irish Cabaret, featuring a delicious dinner, drinks, and outstanding Irish music, dance, and comedy.

Price Range: $$$ ($101 - $150 USD)

Welsh Evening

Cardiff

3h 30m

Experience Welsh culture at its finest during this memorable excursion featuring a dinner of local specialties, wine, and spirited folkloric entertainment.

Price Range: $$ ($51 - $100 USD)

Harbor Cruise

Plymouth

0h 50m

Follow in the footsteps of Sir Francis Drake, Sir Walter Raleigh, and the Pilgrim Fathers on this narrated cruise on Plymouth Sound, one of the world's great natural harbors.

Price Range: $ ($50 USD and under)

others

HAMPTON COURTWalk through the palace gardens

OXFORDWalking tour

STRATFORD-UPON-AVONDiscover Shakespeare’s home town

YORKWalking tour

BERWICK-UPON-TWEED

NORTH BERWICK

EDINBURGHGuided sightseeing, visit Edinburgh Castle

ST. ANDREWSVisit the home of golf

PITLOCHRYVisit the Highland resort

CULLODEN MOORSee the battlesite

ULLAPOOLVisit the remote fishing village

ISLE OF SKYEDrive across the Inner Hebridean island

ARMADALE-MALLAIG

GLASGOWOrientation drive

ALLOWAYStop in Robert Burns’ birthplace

CAIRNRYAN-BELFASTby ferry

GIANT’S CAUSEWAYSee the amazing basalt columns

DERRYVisit the walled city

BELLEEKGuided tour of the pottery factory

GALWAYVisit the seaside town

CLIFFS OF MOHERSavor the spectacular views

KILLIMER-TARBERTCross the Shannon estuary by ferry

DINGLE PENINSULA DRIVE

KILLARNEYVisit the popular resort town

RING OF KERRYScenic peninsula drive

BLARNEYVisit the famous village

WATERFORDVisit the home of the famous crystal

KILKENNYVisit the colorful town

DUBLINOrientation drive

DUBLIN-HOLYHEADby ferry

LLANGOLLEN

CARDIFFOrientation drive

BATHVisit the elegant Georgian city

GLASTONBURY

DARTMOORVisit Widecombe-in-the-Moor

PLYMOUTHSee the Mayflower Steps

CORNWALLVisit Looe

STONEHENGEVisit the prehistoric monument

BRIGHTONVisit the seaside resort

Other activities and services not included.

transport

Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi; round-trip Irish Sea crossings by day ferry; ferry across the Shannon estuary

Good to know

Currency

Pound Sterling

England

Plugs and adapters

Plug type G

Customer reviews

Overall

Itinerary

Guide

4.2

Transport

4.6

Accommodation

4.2

Food

4.5

Operator

4.9

Faq Tour

How can I book a tour?

You can order a tour on our website by selecting the desired dates and clicking the “Confirm dates” button. You can also contact our sales department by phone or email.

Which payment options are available?

We accept credit cards, bank transfers and other popular payment methods.

Can I change or cancel my reservation?

Yes, changes or cancellations are possible, however penalties may apply depending on the time before the tour starts.

What documents are required to participate in the tour?

You will need a passport with a valid visa (if required) to visit countries along the tour route.