
Embark on the ultimate journey around the UK and Ireland with this unbeatable itinerary. You’ll explore the bustling cities of London, Edinburgh, Belfast and Dublin, rich in both history and culture. Plus, wander medieval streets in Bath and York and breathe in the serenity of Scotland’s west coast. Immerse yourself in the spectacular scenery of North Wales with its rolling green hills, ancient mountains and sparkling rivers. It’s a trip you’ll be talking about for years to come.
If you’d like to spend some more time exploring London or Dublin (or both!), you can add extra nights during the booking process.
Optional extras
Customise your adventure with these Optional Extras.
We recommend adding your extra activities to the tour now for the best booking experience and to secure your spot, as activities are likely to sell out.
What you’ll learn
- Get a taste of 5 countries in one trip: England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland
- Explore some of Scotland’s top sights on the famous and breathtaking Isle of Skye
- Discover the geological wonders of the Giant’s Causeway with its volcanic basalt columns
- Marvel at the picture-perfect villages of the Cotswolds
- Walk along gigantic sea cliffs to take in the beauty of the renowned Cliffs of Moher
- Stroll around the romantic Scottish capital, Edinburgh, and explore its highlights
- Admire the famous Stonehenge neolithic stone circle
- Experience the picturesque world of Beatrix Potter in the Lake District
- See the gems of Ireland’s most iconic driving route, the Ring of Kerry
- Wander the Viking city of York and visit its monumental York Minster cathedral
Requirements
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Travel style
Self-Drive i
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Interest
Castles and royalty i, Classic i, Countryside and natural scenery i, Culture and history i
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Season
Apr – Oct
Day 1: Arrival in England
Attractions See activities for this dayWelcome to England! Once you’ve made your way to your accommodation in London, the rest of the day is free for you to explore the lively capital city.
For a dose of history, head to the Tower of London Museum. Or board the famous London Eye to admire the city from above.
You could also visit the nearby royal residence, Buckingham Palace. This grand palace is one of Britain’s most recognisable landmarks.
And when it comes to dinner, you’re spoiled for choice. Take your pick from the huge variety of restaurants and food markets.
Spend the night in London.
If you’d like to explore more of this lively city, you can add an extra night in London during the booking process.
Day 2: Windsor Castle & Stonehenge
Attractions See activities for this dayThis morning, you’ll pick up your rental car and hit the road. Your first stop will be at Windsor, where you can visit the ancient Windsor Castle. Admire intricate architectural details and mesmerising Georgian décor in this royal residence.
Once you’ve explored Windsor, head to the awe-inspiring Stonehenge. Here you can delve into the history of the fascinating stone pillars and come up with your own theory of how the structure was formed.
You’ll then continue your journey towards today’s destination, Bath.
Spend the night in the Bath area.
Average driving distance: 127 mi / 205 km.
Day 3: Relax in Historic Bath
AttractionsToday, you have the whole day to explore the spectacular ancient city of Bath, named after its Roman Baths which date back as far as 60 CE.
Stroll along the winding River Avon and admire the grand Pulteney Bridge. Bath’s streets are lined with incredible Georgian-era architecture, so make sure you look up as you explore.
For a dose of culture, visit the Jane Austen Centre, where you can discover the experience of the Austen family in Regency-era Bath. Or head to the magnificent Bath Abbey. This monumental cathedral is a haven of tranquillity within the city.
Spend another night in the Bath area.
Day 4: Cotswolds & Stratford-upon-Avon
AttractionsToday, you’ll hit the road again. Your destination is North Wales, but we suggest making a couple of stops along the way.
Stretch your legs in the picture-perfect Cotswolds region. The area is famous for its charming countryside and quaint villages.
Stratford-upon-Avon is also a great place to stop. Fans of Shakespeare will love to visit his birthplace and the New Place Museum. From here, the drive north towards Wales cuts through the charming market town of Shrewsbury.
Spend the night in the North Wales area.
Average driving distance: 191 mi / 307 km.
Day 5: Discover Snowdonia
AttractionsAfter breakfast, head out to discover what Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park has to offer.
You could explore the quaint town of Betws-y-Coed. Located right on the River Conwy, it’s a haven for outdoor activities. Take a stroll in the local woodlands to really soak up the atmosphere. The nearby Ogwen valley (Dyffryn Ogwen) is also well worth a visit.
You’ll find Wales’s most famous castle, Caernarfon, just north of the national park. When you step inside this former royal fortress, you’ll feel like you’ve arrived back in an era of medieval grandeur.
Spend another night in the North Wales area.
Average driving distance: 148 mi / 239 km.
Day 6: Journey to York
AttractionsToday you’ll begin your journey to York. There are some beautiful places to stop at along the way, including Chester and Haworth.
Chester is close to the Welsh border and is home to several fascinating Roman ruins. These include defensive city walls and the largest amphitheatre ever discovered in Britain.
Haworth is famed for being the “hillside home of the Brontë family”. Thanks to the Brontë Parsonage Museum, it’s a must-visit for literary lovers.
Then it’s on to today’s destination, spend the night in York.
Average driving distance: 160 mi / 258 km.
Day 7: Explore York at Leisure
Attractions See activities for this dayToday you can explore every nook and cranny of the walled city of York. Take a walk past the medieval City Walls, the towering York Minster cathedral and the historic Shambles shopping street.
Travel back in time with a visit to the Jorvik Viking Centre. This museum offers an immersive experience of life in Viking-era York.
Or you could enjoy a scenic boat trip along the River Ouse. You’ll get to enjoy a new perspective of the city while gliding along the water’s surface.
Spend another night in York.
Day 8: Yorkshire Dales & the Lake District
AttractionsKeep heading north towards the Lake District, admiring the rolling hills and lush greenery of the region.
On the way, stop for a spot of shopping in Harrogate. The charming town’s streets are lined with boutique shops selling locally crafted items.
You could also stop at the nearby city of Ripon. Visit the medieval Ripon Cathedral, wander the Fountains Abbey ruins, or admire beautiful horticulture at one of the city’s many gardens.
And cheese lovers will want to stop at Hawes, the home of Wensleydale cheese!
Spend the night in the Windermere area.
Average driving distance: 114 mi / 184 km.
Day 9: Journey to Scotland
AttractionsToday you say goodbye to England and continue north to Scotland.
You’ll travel through some more of the breathtaking Lake District. To experience more of this region, stop at the Castlerigg Stone Circle or take a stroll through nearby Keswick.
Then you’ll cross the border at the world-famous Gretna Green and can drive through the historic spa town of Moffat.
As you continue towards St Andrews, crossing the Queensferry Crossing, keep an eye out for the iconic Forth Railway Bridge.
Upon arrival in St Andrews, make sure you head out to explore the seaside town. There are 3 beautiful beaches and a world-famous golf course, as well as castle and cathedral ruins to discover.
Spend the night in St Andrews.
Average driving distance: 239 mi / 384 km.
Day 10: Into the Highlands
Attractions See activities for this dayIf you’re up bright and early, stroll around more of St Andrews’ charming cobblestone streets before jumping in the car to continue your road trip north.
You’ll cross the River Tay and travel west towards Perth. From here, you’ll head north into the Cairngorms National Park.
There’s several possible stops you could make along the way, such as the picturesque village of Dunkeld, the 13th-century Blair Castle or the Highland Folk Museum.
Closer to Inverness, you could visit some interesting historic sights. The Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns are nearby.
Spend the night in the Inverness area.
Average driving distance: 155 mi / 250 km.
Day 11: Loch Ness, Castles & Isle of Skye
Attractions See activities for this dayAfter breakfast, drive along the shores of Loch Ness, where you can visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition or explore the nearby Urquhart Castle ruins.
From here, you’ll head west toward the breathtaking Isle of Skye. On the way, you may want to make a photo stop at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, which you may recognise from countless films and TV shows.
You’ll then visit the scenic village of Portree on Skye, where you can admire colourful buildings and dine on Scottish fare at a local restaurant.
Spend the night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.
Average driving distance: 115 mi / 185 km.
Day 12: The Isle of Skye
AttractionsToday, take advantage of having a full day on Skye. The island is a haven for nature lovers, with breathtaking landscapes all around.
We recommend driving north and visiting the Trotternish Peninsula. Here you can enjoy a walk up to the “Old Man of Storr” rock pinnacle and marvel at the beautiful Kilt Rock waterfall.
Other highlights include the Quiraing rock face, the An Corran Beach at Staffin (where you might spot ancient dinosaur footprints) and the mystical Fairy Glen.
Spend another night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.
Average driving distance: 45 mi / 70 km.
Day 13: Sleat Peninsula & Glenfinnan
Attractions See activities for this dayHead south to the Sleat Peninsula. On the way, stop off to enjoy a walk to the crystal-clear Fairy Pools at the foot of the Black Cuillin Hills. Or sample some single malt whisky at the Talisker Distillery.
In the afternoon, catch a ferry from Armadale to Mallaig on the mainland. On your way to Fort William, why not stop at Camusdarach Beach? The white sand here will take your breath away.
You could also stop at Glenfinnan and spot the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you might recognise from the Harry Potter movies.
Spend the night in the west coast area.
Ferry duration: 30 minutes
Average driving distance: 80 mi / 135 km.
Day 14: Stirling & Edinburgh
AttractionsYou’ll drive through the magnificent Glen Coe valley, Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park regions today. Make sure you pull into one of the many parking spots along your route to snap some photos.
Fans of Game of Thrones and Outlander will also want to stop at the imposing Doune Castle. Upon arrival in Stirling, you could pay a visit to Stirling Castle, to learn about the city’s storied past.
Then, it’s on to Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh. Take to the streets on foot to soak up the city’s buzzing atmosphere.
Spend the night in Edinburgh.
Average driving distance: 162 mi / 261 km.
Day 15: Explore Edinburgh
Attractions See activities for this dayThe day is yours to explore Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, at your leisure.
Learn about the city’s fascinating history at Edinburgh Castle, located atop the craggy Castle Hill. From here, stroll down the cobblestone streets of the Old Town.
Stop for a drink in the famous Grassmarket, before heading to the iconic Royal Mile. You could stop in at St Giles Cathedral or Holyrood Palace for an added dose of Scottish history.
Or take the short stroll up Calton Hill for incredible views of the city. You’ll get a bird’s eye view over Princes Street, the castle, Arthur’s Seat, and more.
Spend another night in Edinburgh.
Day 16: Travel to Dublin
Attractions See activities for this dayToday, board a flight to Dublin, Ireland for the final leg of your tour.
Once you’ve checked into your hotel, the city is yours to explore. Its streets are eclectic, with a mix of heritage sites, museums and historic pubs.
You can take a stroll along the cobbled streets of the Temple Bar district or visit the historic Trinity College to see the ancient Book of Kells.
Alternatively, you could enjoy an afternoon tea sightseeing tour of the city on a vintage bus or grab a pint at the Guinness Storehouse for a taste of the world-famous beer.
Spend the night in Dublin.
Day 17: Journey to Northern Ireland
Attractions See activities for this dayToday, you start your road trip to Northern Ireland.
Your first stop of the day is the charming 12th-century Malahide Castle. Further along, you could visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Newgrange, where you can see megalithic passage tombs which are believed to be older than the Great Pyramids of Egypt. This is one of Ireland’s most popular and fascinating attractions.
Next, stop to admire the high crosses of Monasterboice, the historic ruins of a Christian settlement. Then cross into Northern Ireland to reach the capital, Belfast.
Spend the night in Belfast.
Average driving distance: 191 km / 121 miles.
Day 18: Discover Belfast
Attractions See activities for this dayToday you have a full day to explore Belfast, an exciting city with a mix of Victorian grandeur, industrial grit and living history.
Don’t miss out on the city’s leading attraction, the Titanic Belfast. Experience the story of the world’s largest and most luxurious ship, which was constructed here in 1909.
You can also see the Peace Walls and their famous murals and admire the architecture of the City Hall. Or opt to visit the Ulster Folk Museum, a complete recreation of an early 1900s traditional Northern Irish town.
Spend another night in Belfast.
Day 19: Giant’s Causeway & Antrim Coast
AttractionsToday you’ll explore the beautiful Antrim Coast. First, pass by the atmospheric Dark Hedges, a striking Game of Thrones filming location.
If you prefer, skip this sight and follow the Antrim Coast via the town of Cushendall for a scenic detour.
Then, enjoy a scenic coastal walk at Carrick-a-Rede to cross its rope bridge swaying 30 metres (98 feet) above the sea. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the cliffs below.
The highlight of the day is the jewel of Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway, a World Heritage Site with iconic basalt columns. Nearby, visit Bushmills Distillery, the world’s oldest whiskey distillery.
We also recommend stopping for a view of the breathtaking, medieval ruins of Dunluce Castle, perched by dramatic coastal cliffs.
Spend the night in the Donegal area.
Average driving distance: 257 km / 160 miles.
Day 20: Discover Rugged Connemara
AttractionsDrive south through County Sligo, passing one of Ireland’s most recognisable mountains, the stunning Ben Bulben.
You’ll journey through the picturesque town of Westport, before reaching the striking Connemara National Park. Take a stroll to soak up the rugged countryside with its white sand beaches and picture-perfect lakes.
Stop by Killary harbour, Ireland’s only true fjord with a length of 16 kilometres (9.9 miles). Further along, visit Kylemore Abbey where you can admire spectacular Gothic architecture and take a stroll in the Victorian Walled Garden.
If time allows, drive the circular Sky Road near Clifden for broad views of the Atlantic. Then arrive in Galway, a lively and colourful city.
Spend the night in the Galway area.
Average driving distance: 335 km / 209 miles.
Day 21: Cliffs of Moher & Limestone Landscapes
Attractions See activities for this dayAfter breakfast, head out to explore Dunguaire Castle. Sitting on a rocky outcrop overlooking Galway Bay, it’s one of the most photographed castles in Ireland.
You could also visit the nearby lunar-like landscape of The Burren, before arriving at the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. This region showcases some of the country’s most iconic coastal scenery.
In the afternoon, head to the 15th-century Bunratty Castle. Here you’ll also find the Bunratty Folk Park, where you can discover what Irish rural life was like a century ago.
Spend the night in the Killarney/Tralee area.
Average driving distance: 269 km / 167 miles.
Day 22: Ring of Kerry
Attractions See activities for this dayToday you can take in the magic of the Ring of Kerry, a scenic driving route through the Irish countryside. Stop along the way at Kells Bay House, a hidden gem with breathtaking gardens.
Other highlights around the route include the ancient stone forts of Caherdaniel and Staigue, and Derrynane Bay with its beautiful white sand. Complete the drive with a visit to the picturesque Torc Waterfall.
You could also take an optional boat tour from the coast to see the Skellig Islands from up close. These otherworldly islands were recently featured in the Star Wars movies.
Spend another night in the Killarney/Tralee area.
Average driving distance: 198 km / 123 miles.
Day 23: Step into Ireland’s History
Attractions See activities for this dayOn your way to Kilkenny, you can visit Blarney Castle, a legendary medieval stronghold that houses the Blarney Stone, surrounded by many myths and tales.
You could also spend some time exploring Cork, Ireland’s “second city” with a vibrant cultural scene.
Continue to Cashel, where you can visit the spectacular Rock of Cashel. The historic site is a fantastic collection of medieval buildings that span over 1,000 years of history.
Then, it’s on to Kilkenny, a medieval town centred around a majestic 12th-century castle.
Spend the night in the Kilkenny area.
Average driving distance: 241 km / 150 miles.
Day 24: Through the Wicklow Mountains to Dublin
AttractionsIf you’d like to maximise your time in Dublin, you can head straight to the city this morning.
Alternatively, you could take a drive through the scenic Wicklow Mountains to immerse yourself in the spellbinding landscape.
While you’re in the area you could also visit Glendalough, a 6th-century monastic settlement, and the Powerscourt Estate, featuring the restored mansion Powerscourt House.
You’ll find Ireland’s highest waterfall on the estate, as well as some magnificent gardens. Back in Dublin, enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure, perhaps with a delicious Irish dinner to round off your adventure.
Spend the night in Dublin.
Average driving distance to Dublin: 123 km / 77 mi.
Average driving distance via Wicklow Mountains: 165 km / 102 mi.
Day 25: Departure from Dublin
See activities for this dayIt’s time to say goodbye to Ireland as your adventure comes to an end. When you need to head to the airport, you can take a taxi, or we can arrange a convenient private transfer directly from your hotel.
If your flight is in the afternoon, you can spend the morning enjoying some last-minute shopping, visiting one of the many attractions or simply relaxing and taking in the atmosphere of the city one last time.
