18-Nights Britain and Ireland Explorer from $3,488

CostSaver

OFFER ID 1519101

Britain And Ireland Explorer
Go behind the scenes on an exploration of all the highlights of Great Britain and Ireland, from the haunt of Shakespeare to Edinburgh’s medieval allure, the sweeping Cliffs of Moher to England’s celebrated Lake District. Come face-to-face with the legacies of the Vikings, Romans and Normans, witness the sites of great tragedies and triumphs, and keep a keen eye out for an elusive monster hidden in a famous loch.

Dining Summary

18 Breakfast (B)
5 Dinner (D)

Essentials

Visit the town of Shakespeare's birth
View York Minster and stroll along the Shambles
View the remains of the Roman wall
View the Jedburgh Abbey ruins
Sightseeing with your Local Guide includes Princes Street, the Royal Mile and views of the Castle
View the 18th green on St. Andrews Old Course
Visit the famous battlefield
Visit the capital of the Scottish Highlands
View the most famous loch of them all
See Glencoe, also known as the 'Glen of Weeping'
View Glasgow Cathedral and George Square on your orientation tour
Visit this town, popular with eloping couples since 1754
Visit this picturesque region
View the timbered buildings known as the 'Rows'
With your Local Guide, see St. Patrick's Cathedral, Christchurch Cathedral, the Georgian Squares and Trinity College
View the Cistercian Abbey
Visit the Belleek Pottery Center
View the 15th-century castle
See Galway Cathedral
View the cliffs and visit the Atlantic Edge exhibition
Enjoy the beautiful scenery
Kiss the Blarney Stone during your visit of Blarney Castle
Visit the Waterford Crystal Showroom
See the Principality Stadium and view Cardiff Castle
Visit the Georgian spa town
View the Royal Castle

Whats Included

An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
The services of a Costsaver Local Host if you stay at Costsaver's recommended London hotel
Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Many meals and daily breakfasts included
City orientation tours
Audio headsets are provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries
Extensive variety of Choice Experiences
On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized.

18 nights from $3,488 per person

Valid on new bookings deposited November 1, 2024 – December 5, 2024 for travel in 2025.

*Discount may already be included in the displayed price. Promotion may not be combinable with any other offers, promotions, or discounts, and is subject to availability and airline booking guidelines. Other restrictions may apply.

Itinerary

Click here for Full Itinerary Details

Itinerary Details

Costsaver: Britain and Ireland Explorer

Day 1 - Arrive London
Discover what's 'great' about Great Britain as you kick-start your lengthy love affair with Britain and Ireland in London. After checking in, spend your leisure time exploring the city your way. You could shop up a storm on Oxford Street, board the London Eye for panoramic views of the city or stroll along the Thames soaking up all its pomp and pageantry in preparation for a memorable trip.
Accommodations: Novotel Brentford

Day 2 - London free day
You may not be royalty, but London rolls out its red carpet today as you enjoy a full free day to explore the city on your terms. There's no shortage of things to do and places to visit, so spend your time wisely embracing all the cosmopolitan verve this multicultural global capital has on offer, from its museums to its monuments, its leafy parks to its lively pubs.
Accommodations: Novotel Brentford
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - London – Stratford-upon-Avon – York – Bradford
This morning, meet your Travel Director and travel companions before you set off from London. Discover what's ‘great' about Great Britain as you kickstart your lengthy love affair with Britain and Ireland in London. The multicultural capital, with all its color, history and culture, waves you on towards the lush green counties north as you wind your way to Stratford-upon-Avon. There's time to explore the town where England's favorite bard was born and laid to rest. You could delve into his life during a visit to Shakespeare's Birthplace and Visitor Center before continuing your journey to York. Wander through its medieval streets to the city's geographic and spiritual heart, the York Minster. Then walk along The Shambles, a street so old it was mentioned in the Domesday Book. Continue to your hotel in Bradford.
Accommodations: Leonardo
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 - Bradford – Edinburgh
All that lies between you and bonnie Scotland is Hadrian’s Wall. Unlike the barbarians it sought to keep out, you’ll have free reign not only to view it but to cross it bound for the 12th-century ruins of Jedburgh Abbey. See how this symbol of power and authority over 'The Debatable Lands' still impresses today. This evening, an Choice Experience could see you take in a traditional Ceilidh, or time your visit to coincide with the rousing Edinburgh Tattoo with tickets included on certain departures.
Accommodations: Moxy Edinburgh Airport
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 - Edinburgh sightseeing and free time
Poets, writers, kings and queens have all found it impossible to resist Edinburgh’s allure. From its medieval Old Town to the elegant Georgian façades across the Leith, you’ll soon discover why it captured the hearts of so many famous people throughout the ages. Your Local Specialist reveals all the colorful tales of 'Auld Reekie' as your sightseeing tour rolls past the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the Royal Mile and Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock. Explore the city your way during your free afternoon or consider joining one of two special Choice Experiences, discovering Rosslyn Chapel or exploring what lies behind the impenetrable walls of Edinburgh Castle. Don your tartan if you please this evening. Tonight, choose to visit the ancient village of Torphichen, where Knights Hospitaller once settled.
Accommodations: Moxy Edinburgh Airport
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 - Edinburgh – St. Andrews – Scottish Highlands
A scenic drive through the ancient kingdom of Fife this morning reveals a time when these lush green hills were under the feudal rule of a Pictish king. Your first stop, however, is in the seaside town of St. Andrews, most noteworthy for its 15th-century university and inspiring the origins of golf. Put aside your dream of a hole-in-one and head to Pitlochry next, your gateway to the Highlands. You could choose to explore this salmon fishing center on your own or walk in the footsteps of queens during an optional visit to Blair Castle, home to Europe’s last remaining private army. Later, an exhilarating optional encounter with a shepherd and his sheep could be on the cards. But it’s the enthusiastic border collies on this Highland farm that are the stars of the show on this Choice Experience.
Accommodations: Craiglynne
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 - Scottish Highlands excursion
Straight out of a scene in 'Outlander', the Scottish Highlands has a mystical air about it which you’ll come to discover as you explore its rugged beauty, evocative history and enchanting Highland ways. On your visit to Loch Ness this morning, keep a keen eye out for ‘Nessie’ before arriving in Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. Today’s poignant highlight is a visit to Culloden, where Bonnie Prince Charlie’s forces fought in the 1745 Jacobite Rising. Return to your hotel in the Highlands for dinner.
Accommodations: Craiglynne
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 - Scottish Highlands – Glasgow
With its head in the clouds, Ben Nevis offers a majestic backdrop to today’s scenic drive to Fort William, the self-proclaimed ‘Outdoor Capital of the UK’. Views of Scotland’s highest peak accompany the drive to Loch Linnhe. Continue to Glencoe where the tragic 17th-century massacre of the MacDonalds turned the wild beauty of this valley into a 'Glen of Weeping'. Travel along the banks and braes of Loch Lomond, where an optional cruise experience could take you to Rob Roy’s cave, before arriving in gritty Glasgow later today. Your orientation tour of the city will include views of Glasgow Cathedral and George Square where many of Scotland’s famous sons are immortalized in stone. An evening of good food and characteristic Glaswegian fun lies ahead if you choose an Optional Experience night out on the "toon".
Accommodations: Ibis City Center
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 - Glasgow – Gretna Green – Lake District – Wrexham
Elope to Gretna Green, as many young couples once did to tie the knot over its marriage anvil. While the practice of handfasting was outlawed less than a century ago, this Scottish town remains a haven for romance and runaway lovers. Continue south through tiny northern villages and vast pastures fringed by ancient stone walls to the Lake District. Today’s highlight is a stop at Lake Windermere where an Optional Experience brings this 'loveliest spot that man hath found' to life. Board an optional cruise on a boat and take a step back in time aboard an old-world steam train before arriving at your hotel later.
Accommodations: Ramada Plaza
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10 - Wrexham – Chester – Dublin
See the legacy of Roman rule during this morning’s visit to the ancient walled city of Chester. You’ll view its defensive 1st-century walls and the characteristic black and white half-timbered buildings, famously known as 'The Rows' before heading to the west coast. Cross St. George’s Channel to Ireland and its youthful capital, Dublin. You’ll arrive just in time for a Choice Experience at a local gastropub that will deliver the craic for which Ireland is so renowned.
Accommodations: Dublin One
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 - Dublin sightseeing and free time
Embrace your playful side on this morning’s sightseeing tour through Ireland’s whimsical capital with a Local Guide. View St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Dublin Castle and Trinity College, where the 9th-century Book of Kells, and Ireland’s greatest cultural treasure, is housed. This afternoon, explore Dublin your way or join one of two Choice Experiences to visit important monastic sight in Europe. Your Local Guide will bring the ancient stories of Glendalough to life and show you around the beautiful landscapes of the garden of Ireland. This evening, an optional dinner and cabaret evening will have your toes tapping and taste buds craving another round of Irish coffee.
Accommodations: Dublin One
Meals: Breakfast

Day 12 - Dublin - Boyle - Co. Donegal
Cross the 'Emerald Isle', passing lush green counties as you wind your way north to Bundoran. There’s no better way to admire the scenery than joining an optional cruise along the Shannon River. Later, view the ruins of the 12th-century Boyle Abbey before continuing to Donegal, the gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way. Nothing says sophistication quite like fine porcelain and this afternoon’s visit to Belleek Pottery, across the border in Northern Ireland, reveals over a century of craftsmanship and art, the results of which can still be seen on dining tables the world over.
Accommodations: The Abbey
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 13 - County Donegal excursion
Leaving civilization behind for the day, your scenic drive through County Donegal will deliver a multitude of dramatic landscapes. Golden beaches, rugged cliffs and uninhabited islands dot your route so keep your camera at the ready to capture these perfect gifts of Mother Nature.
Accommodations: The Abbey
Meals: Breakfast

Day 14 - County Donegal – Galway – Cliffs of Moher – Shannon
Galway’s ancient reputation as a 'place of foreigners' is long gone, but much of its captivating heritage remains as you’ll see first-hand during a stroll around Eyre Square. View Galway Cathedral, then leave the city behind for the plunging Cliffs of Moher. Take a deep breath and let the fresh sea air fill your lungs as you peer over the edge of the emerald-topped cliffs where puffins make their home, to the crashing waves of the Atlantic below. With a squint on a clear day, you may just be able to see the distant Aran Islands.
Accommodations: Treacys Oakwood
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 15 - Shannon – Dingle Peninsula – Co. Kerry
See the Ireland you’ve only encountered in pictures and on the big screen until now. Your drive around the stunning Dingle Peninsula reveals a land of stone monuments, wild beaches and verdant pastures. See tiny Gaelic settlements, colorful fishing villages and landscapes that 'catch the heart off guard', in the words of Irish poet, Seamus Heaney. Later arrive in Tralee in County Kerry, where the Rose of Tralee International Festival attracts 'lovely and fair' Irishwomen from around the world to compete for the crown of 'Rose'. A fitting way to end the day would be to join an Optional Experience with a show of Irish dancers. Embrace the spirit of old Ireland life and times and enjoy a hearty Irish meal.
Accommodations: River Island
Meals: Breakfast

Day 16 - Co. Kerry – Blarney – Waterford
Kiss the Blarney Stone and acquire the 'gift of the gab' on your visit to Blarney Castle this morning. Show off your silver tongue throughout your scenic drive through Cork to Waterford, Ireland’s oldest city. From the ancient Vikings to the Normans, they all made their mark on Waterford, but it is the city’s glittering crystal mastery spanning the years since 1783 that have made it world famous. Visit the Waterford Crystal Showroom (when open) to see its artistry before an optional walking tour with a Local Specialist followed by a drink in a pub.
Accommodations: Treacy's
Meals: Breakfast

Day 17 - Waterford – Cardiff
Board your return ferry to the United Kingdom this morning, arriving in Wales later where its tiny capital Cardiff waits to be explored. Your orientation tour will take you past its Millennium Center, the National Assembly and the historic Castle at its heart. Join an optional tour of Cardiff Castle followed by an optional evening of Welsh music, culture and humor.
Accommodations: Mercure Cardiff Holland House Hotel & Spa
Meals: Breakfast

Day 18 - Cardiff – Bath – Windsor – London
There's time to fit in some last-minute sightseeing before returning to London. Cross the Severn Estuary into England and venture to Bath, with its elegant Georgian architecture and the Roman Baths which have given this ancient spa town its name. Visit Windsor and view the world's oldest and largest inhabited castle before shopping for Royal souvenirs. The King's favorite weekend home is a sight to behold before you continue to London.
Accommodations: Novotel Brentford
Meals: Breakfast

Day 19 - Depart London
It's time to close the curtain on your epic adventure across Britain and Ireland. You'll say cheerio to new friends as you prepare for your return journey home.
Meals: Breakfast

Featured Destinations

Kerry

Donegal

Wrexham, UK

Scottish Highlands

Cardiff

Waterford

Nestled in southeast Ireland, Waterford combines low farmland and sandy coastlines with rugged landscape typical of County Cork. The town is an ancient Viking settlement whose roots go back to the 8th century. Even today there is a medieval feel about Waterford with its ancient fortifications, 18th century cathedrals, and fine Georgian houses, particularly around The Mall, George's Street and O'Connell Street. While the town is charming, it regained world recognition with the re-opening of the crystal factory offering once again the famous, exquisite glassware of the town's name. Take a walking tour of Historic Waterford to get an understanding of Waterford's complex history. The 70-foot Reginald's Tower was built in the 11th century. Climb the stone spiral staircase for a great view of the city. The ruins of French Church are part of a Dominican monastery built in 1240 AD given to Huguenot refugees in the 17th century. The Theater Royal and City Hall are considered architectural masterpieces by John Roberts.

Excursions

Waterford Shore Excursion- Waterford and Kilkenny Tour - Full Day Tour

Waterford’s Fine Houses – full day tour

Leaving Waterford this morning we travel through the rich pastures of County Waterford and head for Lismore to visit Lismore Castle Gardens. The castle, which was originally built in 1185 is now the Irish home of the Duke of Devonshire. While Lismore Castle itself is not open to the public, the beautiful and lovingly maintained public gardens are, as is the west wing of the Castle which houses a wonderful contemporary art gallery. The gardens are said to be the oldest continually cultivated gardens in Ireland and they offer spectacular views of both Lismore Castle and the surrounding countryside of the Blackwater valley.

Leaving Lismore we visit nearby Cappoquin House, which is an eighteenth century mansion built on the site of an old Fitzgerald Castle overlooking the River Blackwater. It was designed by the Cork architect, Abraham Hargreave. The Keane family have lived here for the last 300 years. It is little changed from the handsome building completed in 1779. In the house are many reminders of the Afghan war of 1839 in which General Sir John Keane later created Lord Keane of Ghuznee and Cappoquin played an important role. The garden is on a south facing slope crowned with two huge arboretum rhododendrons and planted with unusual trees and flowering shrubs.

Returning to Waterford, we visit Curraghmore House, which is owned by the Marquis of Waterford and has been home to his ancestors since 1170. Some 2,500 acres of formal gardens, woodland and grazing fields make this the largest private demesne in Ireland and one of the finest places to visit in Ireland. The interior has exceptionally fine plasterwork and a guided tour of the main reception rooms of Curraghmore House can be arranged by prior appointment. This tour takes in some of the finest neo-classical rooms in Ireland which feature the magnificent plaster work of James Wyatt and grisaille panels by Peter de Gree. The superbly landscaped gardens beside Curraghmore House, incorporate a shell house, the interior of which was designed by Catherine, Countess of Tyrone, in 1754. May and June are the best months to appreciate azaleas, rhododendrons, through exceptionally fine trees may be enjoyed at any time.

Your driver with then transfer you back to your ship.

Shannon

Dublin

Dublin enjoys one of the loveliest natural settings in Europe. Dublin attracts visitors from around the world with its old world charm and friendly atmosphere. Most of the architecture dates from the 18th century, when Dublin enjoyed great prominence and prosperity. Also of interest are stately Georgian houses which front Merrion Square. O'Connell Street is considered the commercial center of Dublin. Perhaps the most memorable feature of Dublin is the traditional pub, where visitors can enjoy conversation over fine Irish brew. The city also offers many fine parks, including St. Stephen's Green and Phoenix Park. National Gallery's renowned collection includes works by such famous masters as Rembrandt and Monet. Trinity College's Old Library is home to the most cherished treasure, the Book of Kells, a manuscript of the Gospels. Admire Christ Church Cathedral and St. Patrick's Cathedral. Enjoy the exhibits in impressive National Museum. Self-guided walking tours include Old City Trail, Georgian Heritage Trail and the Cultural Trail.

Excursions

Dublin: Highlights of Dublin City - 8 hours

Ireland, known affectionately as the “the Emerald Isle” is renowned for its excellent hospitality and you can be assured of a warm welcome by your guide and driver, who will meet you at the port. Discover the history, literary heritage and culture that lies behind Dublin’s elegant Georgian architecture and famous landmarks, during your full-day tour.

Founded in the 16th-century, Trinity College is Ireland's oldest university and holds the Book of Kells, a greatly treasured example of early Irish manuscript illumination. History lovers may opt to visit the nearby Treasury of the National Museum or EPIC - the interactive museum commemorating the emigration of 10 million Irish. For those interested in art, the National Gallery houses a superb collection.

Afterwards make a lunchtime pit stop at the Guinness Storehouse, where you learn how a pint of the world-famous Guinness is created. The heart of the building is modelled on a giant pint glass, which would hold approximately 14 million pints of Guinness beer if filled! Enjoy a complimentary pint of Guinness in the Gravity Bar, which boast 360-degree views of the capital.

Complete your touring this afternoon, with a visit to St. Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland and final resting place of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels. Here, take a guided tour of the impressive staterooms which are a longtime symbol of British rule in Ireland, before being transferred back to your ship.

Highlights:

Admire the grandeur of St Patrick's Cathedral, the largest church in Ireland and final resting place of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels
Pour yourself a pint of Ireland’s finest at the Guinness Storehouse to discover the country’s most famous export

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

Private transport by Mercedes E-class or similar for 1 and 2 passengers, VW Caravelle (7 passenger seats) or similar for 3 and 4 passengers and 12-seater or similar for 5 and 6 passengers.
Expert local guide for 8 hours of sightseeing in Dublin
Entrance fees to all sights and museums
All taxes

Exclusions

All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
Gratuities
Supplement for public holidays
Anything not specifically mentioned in the "inclusions" list above

Dublin: An Introduction to Dublin - 4 hours

Dublin - Dublin City & Powerscourt - Full Day Tour

Glasgow

Edinburgh

Dominated by the ramparts of Edinburgh Castle, this picturesque city offers shopping on Princes Street, the grandeur of the Royal Mile, St. Giles Cathedral and historic Palace of Holyrood House, where Queen Mary lived and many Scottish kings were wed. Or venture across the moors to marvel at the scenic Highlands.

Excursions

Edinburgh: Royal Edinburgh - 8 hours

With Scotland's most famous castle dominating the city, Edinburgh provides a fantastic introduction to this magical country. This morning you will receive a warm welcome by your local guide as you disembark your cruise for your full day sightseeing tour (8 hours) by private vehicle.

You will first head up to Edinburgh Castle, where you will see the 'Honours of Scotland', or the Scottish Crown Jewels, and have the opportunity to admire striking views across the city. Drive along the Royal Mile to the imposing Holyrood Palace*, the Queen's Official Residence in Scotland.

Continue the Royal theme this afternoon, with a visit to the Royal Yacht Britannia. Built in Scotland, and now permanently moored here, this famous ship hosted many official voyages during her working life. Your guide will bring the Royal Yacht Britannia’s intriguing history to life prior to the short transfer back to your cruise ship.

*You will tour the staterooms of the palace if no member of the Royal Family is staying here at the time.

Highlights:

Privately guided tour of Edinburgh Castle
Visit Holyrood Palace (Subject to Royal Visit)
Discover the history of the Royal Yacht Britannia

Tour Duration: 8 Hours

Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:

Private transport by BMW 7 Series or similar for 1 or 2 passengers or Viano (6 passenger seats) or similar for 3, 4, or 5 passengers or Sprinter for 6 passengers.
Expert local guide for stated sightseeing 8 hours in Edinburgh
Entrance fees to all sights and museums
All taxes

Exclusions:

All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
Gratuities
Supplement for public holidays
Anything not specifically mentioned in the “Inclusions” list above.

Edinburgh: Introducing Edinburgh - 4 hours

Bradford

London

Vacation Details

Valid Date Ranges

04/18/2025 - 05/06/2025

from $3,488 per person

05/02/2025 - 05/20/2025

from $3,925 per person *

05/09/2025 - 05/27/2025

from $3,533 per person

05/16/2025 - 06/03/2025

from $3,578 per person

05/23/2025 - 06/10/2025

from $3,578 per person

05/30/2025 - 06/17/2025

from $3,596 per person *

06/06/2025 - 06/24/2025

from $3,596 per person

06/13/2025 - 07/01/2025

from $3,596 per person

06/20/2025 - 07/08/2025

from $3,596 per person

06/27/2025 - 07/15/2025

from $3,645 per person

07/04/2025 - 07/22/2025

from $3,645 per person

07/11/2025 - 07/29/2025

from $3,645 per person

07/18/2025 - 08/05/2025

from $3,578 per person

08/01/2025 - 08/19/2025

from $3,758 per person *

08/10/2025 - 08/28/2025

from $3,758 per person

08/15/2025 - 09/02/2025

from $3,758 per person

08/22/2025 - 09/09/2025

from $3,623 per person

08/29/2025 - 09/16/2025

from $3,596 per person

09/05/2025 - 09/23/2025

from $3,596 per person *

09/12/2025 - 09/30/2025

from $3,596 per person

09/19/2025 - 10/07/2025

from $3,596 per person

* This departure has been designated a guaranteed departure by the operator, meaning that the minimum number of guests has been met, although still subject to weather and other conditions.

Prices Start At

from $3,488 per person

Length

18 Nights

Air City

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Vacation Rating

Superior

Remarks

Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discounts. Trip prices and discounts are subject to change. Airfare is additional. Tour prices, dates and itineraries are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

OFFER ID

1519101

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