British Isles Grand Adventure Tour
Begin in London and return 20 days later – a grand circuit of England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, Ireland and Wales. You’ll tour London’s classics, then Cambridge’s colleges and York’s lanes. Edinburgh impresses, then Highland drama – Loch Ness cruise, Urquhart Castle – and lively Glasgow. Cross by ferry to Belfast to follow the Antrim Coast, sip Bushmills and marvel at the Giant’s Causeway. In Ireland you’ll explore Dublin, Powerscourt, Killarney by jaunting car and lake boat, the Cliffs of Moher and Galway. Sail to Wales for Caernarfon, then Liverpool, Chester and Shakespeare country, rounding off in Bath, Stonehenge and Salisbury.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
20 daysHotel Rating
3-4 star hotelsStarts
LondonEnds
LondonMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in United Kingdom that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
NoTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Countries
United Kingdom, IrelandPassengers
£4,717.50
£300.00
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65
Trip Type
Large Coach Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Large Coach ToursPlaces You'll See
London
Cambridge
York
Durham
Alnwick
Edinburgh
Inverness
Loch Ness
Fort Augustus
Glasgow
Belfast
Cushendun
Ballycastle
Causeway of the giants
Derry
Monea
Marble arch
Dublin
Powerscourt
Kilkenny
Cashel
Cork
Kinsale
Killarney
Limerick
Cliffs of Moher
Galway
Clonmacnoise
Caernarfon
Liverpool
Chester
Lichfield
Birmingham
Stratford
Stow-on-the-Wold
Gloucester
Bath
Stonehenge
Salisbury
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - London
Welcome to London. We’ll transfer you to your hotel, after which you’ll have free time to relax or explore at your own pace. In the afternoon, please check the information boards at hotel reception for details about the start of your tour – everything you need will be posted there. Enjoy your first evening in the city.
Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.
Day 2 - London
This morning we take a panoramic tour of London, taking in Westminster, the Parliament, the City and the River Thames. The afternoon is yours – you can explore at your own pace or join our optional excursion to the Thames Valley, including Windsor with its castle. In the evening we meet at Piccadilly for a guided stroll through Leicester Square, Chinatown and Soho – lively districts known for theatres and entertainment. In some cases this evening programme may be arranged on the previous day, depending on arrival times in London. We return to the hotel by bus afterwards.
Day 3 - London
London – enjoy a full free day to explore at your own pace. There are no scheduled activities today, so you can plan your own sightseeing, revisit favourite spots from yesterday’s tour, or simply take time to relax. We regroup tomorrow to continue the journey.
Day 4 - London - Cambridge - York - Durham
We leave London this morning and travel north to Cambridge, where we’ll take in the elegant college architecture. After lunch, we continue to York to see its impressive cathedral, Roman walls and lively shopping streets. You’ll have free time to explore at your own pace. Later, we head further north to Durham, a characterful medieval city with a magnificent cathedral facing the castle.
Day 5 - Durham - Alnwick - Edinburgh
We travel north towards Scotland, stopping in Alnwick – a picturesque town known for its landscaped gardens and impressive medieval castle, featured in the Harry Potter films. We then continue to Edinburgh, arriving around midday. Scotland’s capital has a UNESCO-listed historic centre, with the castle commanding views over steep streets and parks. On arrival, we take a panoramic tour with a local guide.
Day 6 - Edinburgh - Inverness - Loch Ness - Fort Augustus - Glasgow
We travel north into the Scottish Highlands, beginning with a coffee and a stroll in Pitlochry. We then continue via Inverness, close to Loch Ness. We visit Urquhart Castle (admission included) and take a boat trip on Loch Ness. The route then leads past Fort Augustus with its locks and Fort William at the foot of Ben Nevis, the highest summit in the United Kingdom. Heading south, we cross the high plateaus – where snow is often visible – and follow the shores of Loch Lomond before arriving in Glasgow at the end of the day.From 15 November to the end of February, an adjusted itinerary operates due to shorter days and possible snow: 08:00 – depart Edinburgh for Pitlochry (09:45–11:15) in a renowned whisky‑producing area, where we visit a traditional whisky distillery (admission included). We continue to Stirling (12:30–15:30) to explore the historic centre and visit Stirling Castle (tickets included) – you’ll have time for lunch here. We then pause for photos at The Kelpies before continuing to Glasgow, arriving at around 17:00 – you’ll have time to stroll in the city centre.
Day 7 - Glasgow - Belfast
We leave Glasgow and travel south through Scotland to Cairnryan, where we board the ferry to Northern Ireland. On arrival in Belfast – the capital and largest city of Northern Ireland – we reflect on its complex Protestant and Catholic history and the renewal that has followed the 1998 peace agreement. The rest of the day is free for you to explore. You could visit the Titanic Museum – the city’s most popular attraction – set in the historic shipyards where the RMS Titanic was built, once among the world’s leading shipbuilding centres.
Day 8 - Belfast - Cushendun - Ballycastle - Giants Causeway - Derry
After breakfast we depart, following the Antrim Coast to Cushendun – a conservation village within the Antrim Coast and Glens Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Around midday in Ballycastle, a lively coastal town, you’ll have free time for lunch. We then continue to Bushmills to tour the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery – entrance and guided visit included.In the afternoon we explore the Giant’s Causeway – entrance included – a remarkable sweep of around 40,000 interlocking basalt columns formed by cooling lava nearly 60 million years ago and long linked to the legend of a giant’s stepping stones. We reach Derry later on, a walled city where history meets modern life. You’ll have free time to wander before the overnight stay.
Day 9 - Derry - Donegal - Marble arch - Belfast
We leave Derry and travel through mountain scenery into the Republic of Ireland to Donegal, a lively small town. We include entry to its impressive medieval castle. Crossing back into Northern Ireland, we visit the Marble Arch Caves – admission included – one of Europe’s most remarkable cave systems, formed over 330 million years ago and extending for more than 11 km, continually shaped by underground rivers. There’s free time for lunch – not included. After the visit, we continue to Belfast for arrival and free time.
Day 10 - Belfast - HILLSBOROUGH CASTLE - Dublin
We leave Belfast for Hillsborough Castle – admission included – the official government residence in Northern Ireland. Housed in an 18th century Georgian mansion, it is set amid woodlands, wildflower meadows and beautifully maintained gardens. You’ll have free time for lunch. We then cross into the Republic of Ireland to visit Monasterboice – admission included – a 5th century monastic site renowned for its high Celtic crosses, especially Muiredach’s Cross. We continue to Dublin, arriving by mid afternoon, where you’ll have free time to explore.
Day 11 - Dublin
We start with a panoramic tour of Dublin, Ireland’s capital. We’ll follow the River Liffey, take in its parks, the historic university and the lively city centre streets, and view the exterior of Trinity College. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your own pace. Please note – depending on our arrival time in Dublin and daylight hours, this tour may run the previous afternoon.
Day 12 - Dublin - Powerscourt - Kilkenny - Cashel - Cork
We leave Dublin for nearby Powerscourt to visit the magnificent Powerscourt Gardens – laid out in the 18th century and widely regarded as Ireland’s finest, with admission included. We’ll take time to admire the terraces, fountains, Japanese Gardens and the small pet cemetery. We then continue to Kilkenny, where you’ll have time for lunch and a leisurely stroll around this lively town. Heading further south, we stop at the Rock of Cashel – an impressive medieval fortress long viewed as a symbol of the Irish struggle against England – with admission included. We arrive in Cork in the evening, with time for you to explore the city centre. Dinner is included.
Day 13 - Cork - Kinsale - Killarney - Limerick
We depart Cork for Kinsale, pausing at Charles Fort to take in expansive ocean views beside this 17th century fortress. You then have time to explore the historic centre of Kinsale, a seaside town considered one of Ireland’s most beautiful coastal towns. We continue to Killarney for lunch and a relaxed stroll. In the afternoon we include a traditional jaunting car tour through the National Park, following garden paths and lakeside routes to Ross Castle, and we also include a short cruise to appreciate the scenery from the water. We then make a brief stop in Adare, where stone cottages with thatched roofs and the ruins of an old abbey frame the village streets. By mid afternoon we arrive in Limerick – you can explore the city centre, visit the castle, walk along the river, see the cathedral or browse the shopping centre. Dinner is included.
Day 14 - Limerick - Cliffs of Moher - Galway
From Limerick we travel to Bunratty to visit the Folk Park – tickets included – learning about Ireland’s past among traditional cottages and old markets, and its castle reflecting medieval life. We continue to Caherconnell, where the Poulnabrone Dolmen is located, and we might be lucky enough to see sheepdogs herding. Afterwards we visit the Cliffs of Moher – admission included – which overlook the ocean; if you wish, you can walk to O’Brien’s Tower. Our route then continues through Burren National Park, showcasing stunning landscapes, before we arrive in Galway.
Day 15 - Galway - Clonmacnoise - Dublin
Leaving Galway, we travel to Cong, a picturesque village in a beautiful lake area. We visit the ruins of the Royal Abbey and take a stroll around Ashford Castle, a striking medieval fortress now a hotel. We then continue to Clonmacnoise for a guided visit to the Celtic monastic ruins – tickets with guided tour included. Please note – due to renovation works, the visit will be shorter than usual. After the visit, we stop in Athlone for lunch and a stroll before continuing to Dublin, arriving in the evening.
Day 16 - Dublin - Caernarfon - Liverpool
An early start as we board the ferry from Ireland to Wales – the crossing takes around three to three and a half hours. On arrival, we drive to Caernarfon, a seaside UNESCO World Heritage Site dominated by its imposing castle. We’ll allow time for lunch and a relaxed stroll before continuing to Liverpool, where we’ll take a short orientation tour by coach of this major port city. If you wish, you can visit The Beatles Museum.
Day 17 - Liverpool - Chester - Lichfield - Birmingham
After breakfast, we travel to nearby Chester on the Welsh border. This historic city preserves a Roman amphitheatre, impressive medieval walls and fine architecture – you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace. We continue to Lichfield for a lunch stop – a small, picturesque town with a cobbled centre and historic buildings, dominated by its medieval cathedral with three spires. We then head to Birmingham, the United Kingdom’s second-largest city, shaped by the Industrial Revolution and today a vibrant cultural and economic hub – you can stroll around the Town Hall area and along the canals, whose network is more extensive than Venice’s, lined with restaurants and entertainment.
Day 18 - Birmingham - Stratford - Stow-on-the-Wold - Gloucester - Bath
We depart Birmingham for Stratford–upon–Avon, a 12th‑century town on the River Avon best known as the birthplace of William Shakespeare. During free time, you can visit the house where he was born. We then travel through scenic countryside and small villages to Stow–on–the–Wold, a charming market town of stone cottages, a picturesque square, art galleries and antique shops. Our journey continues to Gloucester, where you’ll have time for lunch around the lively docks and to explore the historic centre – its grand cathedral hosted some Harry Potter scenes. We finish in Bath, renowned for its hot springs and Georgian architecture; if you wish, you can visit the Roman Baths.
Day 19 - Bath - Stonehenge - Salisbury - London
Morning at leisure in Bath – you can visit the Roman Baths if you wish – before we continue through southern England. We include admission to Stonehenge, the renowned prehistoric stone circle whose original purpose remains uncertain. We then head to Salisbury, where you’ll have free time for lunch in the medieval centre, followed by a visit to the cathedral – admission included – home to the tallest spire in England. We return to London, arriving at the end of the day.
Day 20 - London
After breakfast, our journey concludes – we hope you leave with lasting memories and a smooth onward journey.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.
Post-Tour Accommodation - London
Pre-Tour Accommodation - London
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Confirmation of the hotels used may not be available until 48 hours before the tour departs.
If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with another solo traveller of the same sex in a twin room - a single room will be provided at no additional cost if there are no suitable travellers to share with.
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