Day 1: London – Stratford-upon-Avon – York – Bradford

Your whirlwind journey through Great Britain and Ireland launches in London. As the boroughs of the 'Old Smoke' give way to the beautiful shires north of its skyscrapers, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through lush green landscapes bound for Shakespeare country. Visit Stratford-upon-Avon where you’ll come face to face with the legacy of England’s beloved bard before heading to York. Your Travel Director will take you for an orientation walk through its medieval streets to the sacred York Minster, where every piece of stained glass and limestone block was placed for the glory of God. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before you continue to your hotel in Bradford.
Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Bradford – Lake District – Gretna Green – Glasgow

You’re in for a serene start to your morning as you wind your way through the limestone hills and valleys of the Yorkshire Dales. Rustic stone villages, sheep-filled pastures, castles and abbeys line your route to England’s celebrated Lake District. At Lake Windermere, an Optional Experience could take you back to the days of Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth who proclaimed the area 'the loveliest spot that man hath found'. Board an optional cruise on a boat, skimming the northern coastline, deserted islands and Wray Castle. Then cross the Scottish border and stop in Gretna Green where eloping couples would tie the knot over the anvil. Continue to Glasgow later today. Your afternoon orientation of this former industrial hub turned vibrant modern metropolis will include views of the cathedral, the River Clyde and George Square where many of Scotland’s most famous sons are immortalised in stone.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3: Edinburgh excursion

A day spent exploring Scotland’s exquisite capital will leave you in no doubt as to why it captured the hearts of Charles Dickens, Charlotte Bronte and even Queen Victoria. Your Local Specialist will reveal all the highlights of 'Auld Reekie'. View the Royal Mile, the Palace of Holyroodhouse in the shadow of Arthur’s Seat and Edinburgh Castle which watches over the city from Castle Rock. Exchange the medieval façades of the Old Town for grand Georgianlined boulevards of the 18 century New Town. You’ll have some time to explore Edinburgh your way or consider joining one of two special Optional Experiences, visiting the mysterious Rosslyn Chapel or exploring what lies behind the impenetrable walls of Edinburgh Castle. This evening surrender to the skirl of bagpipes during an optional dinner in Stirling with views of its Castle and the Wallace Memorial by night.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4: Glasgow – Belfast – Dublin

Your visit to Scotland culminates in a scenic drive along the Ayrshire coast, the rugged landscapes where Robert Burns, Scotland’s National Poet, was born and raised. Pass Ailsa Craig, the figurative stepping stone from Scotland to Ireland before boarding your short ferry crossing to Northern Ireland. You won’t dally in its trendy capital, but there’s time to see the City Hall, Queen’s University and the dock where the ill-fated Titanic was built. Head south to Dublin, your home for the next two nights. There’s no better way to embrace the energy of the city than joining an optional dinner at one of its most popular restaurant-pubs. Rub shoulders with the locals as you enjoy dinner and a solid dose of Irish craic.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: Dublin sightseeing and free time

You’re in for a 'grand' time in the Irish capital this morning as your Local Specialist shares all the highlights. See Trinity College and St. Patrick’s Cathedral, founded in the 12 century. Its 43- metre spire makes this the country’s tallest church. See the stately Georgian Squares then spend the rest of the day on your own. Head down to Grafton Street or Temple Bar for a pint of the 'Black Stuff' or stroll along the Liffey through the heart of Dublin. This evening, an optional dinner and Irish show will have your toes tapping and taste buds craving another round of Irish coffee.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6: Dublin – Kilkenny – Waterford

Continue through the splendid countryside bound for Kilkenny where you’ll see its beautiful 12 -century castle, an enduring symbol of Norman occupation. Later you’ll arrive in Waterford where a visit to the Waterford Crystal Showroom will reveal a wonderland of delicate crystal, from stemware to fine china. You’re in for a riveting history lesson when you join an Optional Experience for a walking tour with a Local Specialist and visit one of the area’s oldest pubs for a pint. Dinner tonight is at your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7: Waterford – Cardiff

Say your goodbyes to the 'Emerald Isle', crossing St. George’s Channel to Wales. Small in size but significant in stature, Wales is the fifth country on this journey across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Its vibrant capital is your final destination today. Here you’ll view the Millennium Centre, the National Assembly and the historic castle at its heart. Climb the 900-year-old Norman keep and perhaps walk on the battlements during an optional private tour of Cardiff Castle this afternoon. This evening could see you venture into the Welsh countryside for dinner at a 14 - century inn or enjoy an evening of Welsh music, culture and humour at an Optional Experience.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8: Cardiff – Bath – Windsor – London

Today may be our final day together, but it’s packed with things to see. Cross the Severn Estuary into England and venture to Bath with its elegant Georgian architecture. The city’s healing waters saw it emerge as a wellness centre as far back as Roman times. Next, head to Windsor to view the world’s oldest and largest continuously inhabited castle. There’s time for a quiet stroll along the banks of the river and shop for Royal souvenirs before arriving in London later where your epic holiday comes to an end.
Meals: Breakfast

Prices

Dates

*Advertised price is based on twin share and is based on 01 March 2025 departure. Other travel dates available at seasonal surcharge. Please enquire with your RAC travel consultant for current availability and pricing.

*Advertised price is based on 01 March 2025 departure and is subject to availability and change at any time. Please enquire with your RAC travel consultant for current pricing and availability. Other departure dates available at seasonal surcharge. Further conditions apply, for full details, please check with your RAC travel consultant at time of booking.

^Save 10%: Save on select Costsaver tours. New bookings only made from 31 May 2024 onwards. Savings are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Deposit is required at time of booking to lock in savings. Full payment due 120 days prior to departure or at time of booking if booked within 120 days of departure; whichever comes first. Prices are in Australian Dollar ($), are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and are subject to availability. If guests change to another tour or date not on sale, they are responsible to pay the difference and adhere to different payment conditions. May be combined with 5% Global Tour Rewards savings only, not combinable with group discounts or custom group bookings, Future Travel Credit carry forward discount or any other discount or promotion. Other conditions may apply. 

General RAC Travel terms and conditions apply.