Experience enchanting Great Britain and lyrical Ireland at their very best including a stay in cosmopolitan London. Explore Dublin, Edinburgh, Stonehenge, Bath, Cardiff, Shakespeare’s Stratford-Upon-Avon, the Beatle’s Liverpool, Giant's Causeway, Blarney Stone, Londonderry and more. Immerse yourself in London’s authentic East End, sip on authentic Scottish whisky in the Scottish Highlands and kiss the Blarney Stone. Experience the instantly recognisable and our special hidden gems. Discover England, Scotland, Ireland, Wales and Northern Ireland from the eccentric characters to medieval castles, quaint villages, grand cathedrals, timeless landscapes, pop culture and 5000 years of history. Discover the real UK and Ireland with HolidayMax’s immersive luxury touring. Themes include: Europe, Europe Touring, England, Wales, Dublin, Waterford, Offaly, Limerick, Wexford, Galway, Cork, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Departs from London, Luxury Coach, Returns from Londonderry. + Show more

Package Includes

Return international flights to London (premium airline)
Travel by modern large coach
Tour leader and host, with local guides
3 Nights London hotel (superior 4 Star)
2 Nights Dublin hotel
2 Nights Killarney hotel
2 Nights Edinburgh hotel
1 Night Cardiff hotel
1 Night Liverpool hotel
1 Night Galway hotel
1 Night Londonderry hotel
1 Night Belfast hotel
1 Night Scottish Highlands hotel
1 Night Yorkshire hotel
14 Breakfasts, 7 Dinners
Thames River cruise
Return cruise to Ireland
Cambridge punting cruise
Meet and Greet Personalised Transfers

Highlights

London (England) Dublin (Republic of Ireland) Edinburgh (Scotland) Stonehenge Bath (England) Cardiff (Wales) Stratford-upon-Avon (England) Liverpool (England) Giants Causeway Blarney Castle Scottish Highlands Loch Ness Belfast (Northern Ireland) Ring of Kerry (Ireland) Yorkshire (England) Waterford (Ireland) Killarney area Limerick (Ireland) Cliffs of Moher Adare (Ireland) Galway (Ireland) Alnwick Castle Cambridge (England) Londonderry (Ireland)

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Descriptions

Amazing Experiences

• Tour London, Liverpool, Dublin

• Visit Stonehenge, Bath, Cardiff & Liverpool

• Walking tours of Edinburgh, Belfast, Yorkshire & London

• Enjoy free flexi-days to explore London, Dublin, Kerry &

Edinburgh your way

• Enjoy free time in Belfast, Bath, Stonehenge, Stratford-Upon-Avon,

Liverpool, Conwy, Killarney, Galway, Alnwick and the Scottish

Highlands

• Visit Cambridge, Derry, York, Blarney Castle, Donegal, Adare,

Limerick, Cliffs of Moher and Waterford

• London flexi-tour, walking tour, Thames river cruise

• Special East End London walking tour

• English Pub Welcome Dinner

• Special Welsh Dinner in Cardiff

• Killarney Dinner with local Irish fare

• Atmospheric Belfast Dinner

• Scottish Dinner in Edinburgh

• Special Scottish Highlands Dinner

• Traditional Yorkshire Dinner

• Whiskey tasting in the Scottish Highlands

• Blarney Castle, kiss the Blarney Stone

• Experience punting in Cambridge

• Cruise the Irish Sea to Dublin

• Stay in the Scottish Highlands

• Donegal’s untamed Irish landscapes

• Ancient roman heritage of Bath

• Fairytale magic of medieval Conwy Castle

• Waterford, Ireland's oldest city

• Shores of Loch Ness

• Adare, "Ireland's prettiest village"

• Stratford, birthplace of Shakespeare

• Hadrian's Wall, edge of Roman Empire

• Experience the Cliffs of Moher

• Giant's Causeway, natural phenomenon

• Plus more immersive excursions and experiences…

DAY 1 Depart Australia for England

Today we depart for London, England. Fly on a premium award-winning airline like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Qantas or British Airways (subject to availability). Enjoy the attentive cabin service, regular meals and onboard entertainment system.

DAY 2 Arrive in London

You will be personally met at London’s Heathrow Airport by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to your central London hotel. You can relax and use the rest of the day to explore your hotel and its facilities, perhaps take a stroll around this iconic city.

Meet and Greet Personalised Arrival Transfer, Overnight London Hotel.

DAY 3 Tour London & Cruise

Your first two days in London are flexi-tours, so you can tour at your own pace, visiting places of most interest to you. Relax into London time with a choice of included touring options to suit your mood, before we embark on our fully escorted Great Britain & Ireland adventure, starting tomorrow afternoon.

London has something for everyone. Be immersed in history with eye-opening antiquity everywhere, be consumed by centuries of spectacular tradition or embrace cool Britannia’s culture, fine food and good times.

Your flexi-tour includes our enthralling walking tours, a scenic river cruise on the Thames and our special Evening Tour. You have 3 circular driving tours, stay on for the whole tour enjoying our guide’s entertaining commentary or get-off at any one of 51 incredible stops and re-join our next circular tour bus at your leisure. Explore must-see attractions like Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, Piccadilly Circus, Parliament Square, Big Ben, Knightsbridge, Natural History Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, Harrods, Hyde Park, Marble Arch, Kings Cross, Tower Bridge, Oxford Street shops, Madame Tussauds, the Tower of London and more. Alternatively, find your own piece of captivating London.

Walking tours include “Royal Walk” (including the Changing of the Guards when scheduled), “Hidden Gems of the City of London Walk” and the “Hidden Gems of Westminster Walk”.

All 3 circular hop-on hop-off tours, a choice of walking tours, the Evening Tour and the Thames river cruise are included – so tour as much as you like or simply take it easy.

Coach tour, overnight London hotel

DAY 4 Tour London, East End Walking Tour & Pub Dinner

Make the most of your flexi-tour this morning. Perhaps also visit the King’s royal residence of Buckingham Palace, see Poets’ Corner and the Coronation Chair at Westminster Abbey, take a flight in one of the famous glass pods on the London Eye, climb the breathtaking heights of St Paul’s Cathedral’s domed galleries, soak in the exceptional view from the ultra-modern Shard building or test your nerves at the formidable Tower of London.

All 3 circular tours, choice of walking tours, evening tour and river cruise are included – so tour as much as you like or simply take it easy.

This afternoon we meet up with the tour leader of your fully escorted Great Britain & Ireland adventure and get to know your fellow travellers also joining us for our exciting tour. Discuss the special activities that lie in store over the next two weeks.

We then embark on a truly unique walking tour of London's iconic East End. Here we'll encounter London at its most authentic, where every step reveals the captivating stories of this historically significant and increasingly cool neighbourhood. The tales heard here are not of kings and castles, but of the ordinary people who made the East End extraordinary – the cockneys, barrow-boys and waves of immigrants. We stroll along the gritty cobbled streets that weave dramatic stories of infamous characters from centuries past. We reveal narrow backstreets that share their secrets, we witness the boundless creativity of contemporary East Enders in the colourful street art and discover Brick Lane. Explore a historic tavern and converted hipster markets where eclectic stalls boast exquisite handmade art, vintage fashion gems, unique jewellery and delectable street food. We hear of the infamous Victorian murder mysteries, learn of the legendary music hall stars, discover tales of gangster life and witness the diverse cultural treasures brought by immigrants seeking a new life. As the evening’s buzz bestows itself upon these historic streetscapes, it’s time for our special Welcome Dinner at a historic and beautiful East End pub, with an impressive choice of traditional English fare and modern cuisine.

Coach Tour, Walking Tour, Dinner, Overnight London Hotel

DAY 5 London to Bath to Cardiff (Wales)

Today we depart London heading through the beautiful English countryside to Wiltshire and Stonehenge. This iconic symbol of Britain has a history spanning 4,500 years and has many different meanings to people today. It is a wonder of the world, a spiritual place and a source of inspiration. Here you have the option to walk around the sacred Stone Circle. Get an insight into Neolithic life during 2950 BC.

We continue to splendid Bath in Somerset, well known for its Roman era natural hot spring water baths (built in 60 AD) that are still operating today. You’ll also fall in love with Bath's stunning honey-coloured Georgian architecture that is straight from a Jane Austen novel - highlights include the iconic Royal Crescent and the majestic Circus. Here you have the option of exploring this architecturally magnificent town or perhaps choose to enter the Roman Baths complex.

We cross the massive Severn Bridge into the principality of Wales, heading for Cardiff, complete with its own medieval castle located in the city centre. Cardiff is compact and spread between an ancient fort and an ultramodern waterfront, with a strong sporting and cultural presence. The Welsh are famous for their huge singing voices, none more so than Tom Jones.

This evening we enjoy a special Welsh dinner together, with an impressive choice of traditional local dishes and contemporary cuisine.

Today you’ll have some time to explore Stonehenge and Bath your own way or choose an optional activity like Stonehenge ($55). Make your choice while on the tour.

Escorted Coach Tour, Dinner, Overnight Cardiff Hotel.

Day 6 Cardiff to Stratford (England) to Liverpool

We leave Wales heading back into England and to Stratford-upon-Avon, a medieval market town that was 16th-century home of William Shakespeare. Immerse yourself in 800 years of history, see the many buildings that would be familiar to Shakespeare if he was still around today.

Continue north to Liverpool, famous for the Beatles and it’s two high flying football clubs. But there is so much more to Liverpool, its thriving cultural scene, historic architecture and the Liverpudlian’s pure lust for life. See the iconic sights on a tour of the city and enjoy some free time tonight. Perhaps head to Mathew Street, home to the world-famous ‘Cavern Club’, where The Beatles first made their mark on modern music.

Today you’ll have some time to explore Stratford and Liverpool your own way or choose an optional activity like The Beatles Story ($39). Make your choice while on the tour

Breakfast, Overnight Liverpool Hotel.

Day 7 Liverpool to Dublin (Ireland)

Bidding farewell to Liverpool - we encounter the fairytale magic of Conwy Castle and marvel at this magnificent 13th century medieval fortress, one of the most superb medieval castles in Europe. Conwy town is still protected by an unbroken 1.3km ring of ancient town walls - enjoy some free time to absorb the palpable sense of history which surrounds you.

We then delight in a brief stop at the village with the longest place name in Europe (Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch) before we cruise across the Irish sea to Dublin. It’s a small capital city but has a legendary literary tradition and a huge reputation for being gregarious and energetic. It has magnificent medieval, Georgian and modern architecture. It’s easy to drink in Dublin’s history with its cobbled streets and classic pubs.

Enjoy a tour of the cosmopolitan Irish capital, followed by some time to explore this 1000-year-old city yourself. From the city’s Viking past, its medieval castles and its cathedrals, to its many museums that illustrate some of the city’s more turbulent history, Dublin is big enough to keep you entertained but small enough to explore easily yourself.

Breakfast, Ferry transfer, Overnight Dublin Hotel.

Day 8 Explore Dublin

Choose how you’d like to experience Dublin today with a selection of activities on offer. It’s easy to self-discover this lively capital city that’s as intimate as a village and as friendly as your local Irish pub with a wide range of attractions. There’s also the option of visiting the Guinness Storehouse to see how the city’s most famous export dark beer is made. Alternatively, visit the National Museums of Ireland, take a walk along the South Wall, visit the city’s most famous park, St Stephen’s Green or see the Irish Museum of Modern Art.

Tonight, there’s also the option to visit a traditional Irish pub that reflects all that is great about Irish Pubs, including the best Irish music and Irish dancing show in Dublin.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Dublin and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like an Irish Music Evening at the Merry Ploughboy for live traditional music and dancing with classic Irish fare ($108), Ireland’s Identity ($108) or the Whiskey and Guinness Experience ($108). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Overnight Dublin Hotel.

Day 9 Dublin to Waterford to Killarney area

We head to Ireland’s ancient east coast and to its oldest city Waterford. Founded by Vikings in 914, the city has a fascinating history, rich maritime tradition, Norman constructs and of course a glittering expanse of immaculately crafted crystal.

Continue to spectacular Blarney Castle housing the very famous Blarney Stone - the legendary Stone of Eloquence found at the top of the tower. Kiss it and you'll never again be lost for words.

Tonight we all enjoy a special dinner together savouring some hearty local Irish fare.

Breakfast, Dinner, Overnight Killarney Region Hotel.

Day 10 Explore Ring of Kerry

Kerry is the picture-postcard image of Ireland familiar to us all, with its mix of moody mountains, rugged coastlines and quaint vibrant towns. The Ring of Kerry is a popular scenic driving route skirting the edges of the Iveragh Peninsula.

Choose how you’d like to experience Kerry today with a selection of activities on offer. There are incredible trails to hike, as well as amazing golf courses and beautiful churches to visit. Alternatively, join our optional excursion as we drive along the incredible Ring of Kerry. This famous circular tourist route is home to the most breathtaking coastal views, emerald-green pastures and charming villages. Enjoy views of the coast and charming local villages as we stop along the way. Take the opportunity to amble down the high streets, explore the shops and try the culinary treats on offer from the cute cafes, bars and restaurants in the area. The scenery of this beautiful green landscape is sure to leave a lasting impression on you. Complete your day with some free time in Killarney town.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. You can explore Kerry and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the Ring of Kerry day trip ($98). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Overnight Killarney Region Hotel.

Day 11 Killarney area to Adare to Limerick to Galway

Today is another day for dramatic Irish scenery as we make our way up the ‘Wild Atlantic Way’, stopping in Adare and Limerick. Adare is renowned as Ireland’s prettiest village, with its string of beautiful 19th-century thatch-roofed white-walled cottages.

Visit Limerick and the Treaty Stone, where history whispers of the legend of the Treaty of Limerick, the peace that halted the tumultuous Williamite War in Ireland was sealed here. As you stand present - picturing the past, marvel at the majestic 13th-century King John's Castle, perched on the opposite bank in all its timeless glory.

We journey through the county of Limerick to make our way to the famous Cliffs of Moher. These staggeringly beautiful, entirely vertical cliffs rise to a height of 214m, their edge abruptly falling away into a ceaselessly churning Atlantic. The views on a clear day are absolutely breathtaking.

Continue to the cool harbour city of Galway. Its brightly painted pubs reflect its bohemian flavour, artistic creativity and an infectious up-tempo vibe. Remnants of the medieval town walls lie between shops selling handcrafted Claddagh rings, books and musical instruments. Explore the city for yourself during some free time and experience all the charms that Galway has to offer (including its delicious oysters).

Today you’ll have some time to explore Galway at your own pace or join the optional activity Galway Cruise ($33). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Overnight Galway Hotel.

Day 12 Galway to Donegal to Londonderry (Northern Ireland)

We continue our spectacularly scenic drive along the rugged northwest coast to Donegal – a town where the traditional spirit of the Emerald Isle thrives amidst untamed landscapes. Donegal's mystical historic charm is heightened by its windswept clifftops, emerald hills, ancient castles and serene lakes. The spirit of adventure beckons in this ancient Irish gem, where legends come to life amidst wild and soul-stirring beauty.

We then journey into Northern Ireland, part of the United Kingdom, and a key filming location for the hit television show Game of Thrones. This is a place where fantasy comes to life.

This afternoon, we arrive in the country’s second largest city Londonderry, locally known as simply Derry. It’s cosmopolitan, creative and steeped in history – but it’s the combination of warmth and wit that makes it special. History is all around you, literally, with the 17th-century city walls. There's lots of history to absorb here, from the Siege of Derry to the Battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday. Don’t be surprised to hear traditional music spilling out onto the streets from vibrant pubs.

Breakfast, Overnight Londonderry Hotel.

Day 13 Londonderry to Giant’s Causeway to Belfast

This morning, we set off to discover a true wonder of nature - the well-known phenomenon of the Giant’s Causeway. This is nature at its most primal: carving the land into mad formations that send the imagination into overdrive. No wonder dreamy and fantastical myths surround it. Experience the majesty of these 40,000 interlocking basalt columns and hear their stories.

Next, we arrive in Northern Ireland’s famed capital. Belfast has pulled off a remarkable transformation from its troubled past - now known for its eclectic medley of cultural treasures, mix of Victorian grandeur, industrial grit and living history. Our local guide takes us on a fascinating combined driving and walking tour, showing us some of the city’s most famous sights like the Titanic Belfast attraction and telling us about the city’s past. This evening, we enjoy a sumptuous dinner in this vibrant city.

Today you’ll have some time to explore Belfast at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the Titanic Belfast Experience ($50).

Breakfast, Dinner, Overnight Belfast Hotel.

Day 14 Belfast to Edinburgh (Scotland)

Today we cruise from Belfast across the Sea of Moyle to Scotland. From the enchanting, storybook-like streets of Edinburgh to the untamed, windswept grandeur of the Highlands, Scotland beckons with timeless tales and awe-inspiring natural wonders. Here, age-old castles command emerald hills, and vibrant cityscapes harmoniously blend the traditions of tweed and bagpipes with contemporary avant-garde culture. Savour a dram of single-malt whiskey, and you'll be transported to the very heart of this mythical land, where mist-cloaked lochs, windswept moors, and sun-dappled glens paint a vivid tapestry of captivating beauty and tradition.

We journey to Edinburgh, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, draped across a series of rocky hills overlooking the sea. Enjoy a fascinating walking tour of the Scottish capital, including Holyrood House, the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, birthplace of the original world famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo. JK Rowling famously penned the first Harry Potter novel here, you may find some parts of the city strangely familiar.

Breakfast, Cruise to Scotland, Dinner, Overnight Edinburgh Hotel.

Day 15 Explore Edinburgh

Choose how you’d like to experience Edinburgh today with a selection of activities on offer. Perhaps revisit some of the highlights from yesterday’s walking tour, like discovering Edinburgh Castle in full, or take a stroll up to Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views of the city below.

Tonight, you have the chance to indulge in a special traditional Scottish dinner, the menu comes complete with famous haggis.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity that piques your interest. You can explore Edinburgh and its amazing attractions yourself at your own pace or choose an optional activity like the Scottish Dinner & Show ($166) or Edinburgh Highlights ($98). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Overnight Edinburgh Hotel.

Day 16 Edinburgh to Loch Ness to the Scottish Highlands

Today we head deep into the dramatic Scottish Highlands to Loch Ness, well known for its elusive resident ‘monster’ Nessie. This large, deep, freshwater loch is remarkably beautiful. Enjoy free time here, perhaps join a cruise on the loch to see the loch-side view of the striking Fort Augustus Abbey. Enjoy a brief stop at the breathtakingly beautiful Glencoe. Bathed in Highland beauty, this rugged landscape resonates with both history and nature's grandeur, its dramatic peaks, lush valleys, and deep lochs resonating with the profound and often melancholic tales of this storied glen.

Later in the afternoon, it is time to sample some authentic Scottish whiskey. Indulge in both a glass of Ardbeg and one of Glenfiddich, accompanied by a mouthwatering slice of homemade shortbread. Savour the smooth, rich flavours, echoing the tradition and beauty of the surrounding Scottish Highlands. Be in awe of the scenery as we continue on to our accommodation in the picturesque Highlands this evening.

Today you’ll have some time to explore the Scottish Highlands your own way or take an additional optional activity like the Loch Ness Cruise ($40). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Whiskey Tasting, Dinner, Overnight Highland Hotel.

Day 17 Scottish Highlands to York (England)

Today we say goodbye to Scotland and make our way to north England and the instantly recognisable Alnwick Castle. It’s the residence of the 12th Duke of Northumberland, built following the Norman conquest in 1096 – but is most famous for the starring role it plays in TV shows and films. Including two Harry Potter films (The Philosopher’s Stone and The Chamber of Secrets), Downton Abbey, Robin Hood, The Black Adder, Star Trek and many more.

We continue into Yorkshire, and to the county’s capital. York is a charming city of winding cobbled streets, lined with little boutiques selling all manner of fascinating items and a number of traditional lolly-shops. We embark on a walking tour of the city to see its most famous sites, including to the largest gothic cathedral in northern Europe (York Minster). We all enjoy a traditional Yorkshire dinner tonight.

Today you’ll have some time to explore Alnwick your own way or choose an optional activity like Alnwick Castle & Gardens ($65). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Dinner, Overnight Yorkshire Hotel.

Day 18 Yorkshire to Cambridge to London

We journey south through the rolling green English countryside to the historic town of Cambridge, with its ancient university colleges and a beautiful winding river. Abounding with exquisite architecture, exuding history and tradition, and renowned for its quirky rituals, Cambridge is a university town extraordinaire. Perhaps wander around the University buildings and experience them as countless prime ministers, poets, writers and scientists have done through the centuries. This afternoon we relish a guided tour of this picture-perfect town that appears untouched by time - in the traditional way - on a punt on the River Cam.

Continue back to London for our final night in England. Relax this evening, perhaps joining some fellow travellers for a farewell dinner.

Breakfast, Punt Boat tour, Overnight London Hotel.

Day 19 Say Goodbye to London

Time to say farewell to your fellow travellers and friendly tour hosts as your grand tour through enchanting Great Britain and lyrical Ireland draws to an end.

You will be personally met at your hotel by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to London Heathrow airport for your flight home.

Meet and Greet Personalised Departure Airport Transfer

Day 20 Arrive home

Enjoy the attentive service on your premium airline flight home.

Escorted Tour Details

Overview What to Expect in Europe Freedom and Flexibility Modern Coaches

Tour Leader Your Mobility & Fitness

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Escorted Coach Touring

Cherish the unforgettable moments of your HolidayMax escorted tour featuring unparalleled sightseeing and enriching cultural experiences. We are passionate about showing you the heart of the destination, enabling you to be truly touched by new experiences.

Your knowledgeable Tour Leader and host will ensure you get the best personal experience on your journey. Tours feature all the must-see sights along with our little-known exclusive hidden gems and special touches in each destination, with plenty of free-time for you to take it all in for yourself. Enjoy the freedom to tailor your holiday in your free-time, including whole free-days that give you a choice of activities to suit your mood on the day.

This exclusive HolidayMax tour is only for our Australian guests, enjoy a more fun and laidback experience with likeminded travellers. Stay in quality handpicked hotels. Savour deliciously authentic local dining in outstanding restaurants with a mouth-watering array of culinary experiences. Travel in large modern coaches with expansive windows for an incredible elevated view, in your comfortable seat with generous legroom.

Experience HolidayMax’s renowned immersive touring or river cruising. Join us on an unforgettable journey of discovery. We’ve taken care of the details; you just need to relax and embrace your sense of adventure.

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Great Britain & Ireland Tour

20 Day Touring Package

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$ 5949 *

Typically $8388

*AUD starting holiday costs, per person, for 2 people sharing, on selected travel dates (off-peak). Travel on other dates attracts a surcharge. As prices vary based on travel dates, be flexible with dates to get the best deals! Itinerary and vehicle types subject to change without notice. Subject to limited availability at these prices, after which higher prices apply, book now. Some governments and service operators have Covid vaccination requirements. Your included flights advised via email with 24 hours to select alternative flights, routing or airline (alternatives may be at a higher price). Included flights may not be the most direct routing. Arrive earlier/stay longer for specified airports only. Stop-overs are not possible. Subject to Booking Conditions, see Important Information before booking. © DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Booking Code: mp454