cosmos british isles in depth tour

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The British Isles in Depth ( 9090 )

23 Day Tour from London to London

The British Isles in Depth

Starting at $4,629

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2024 Tour Details View 2025 Tour Details »

•  Overview

 Photo Highlights

•  Itinerary and Meals

 Tour Director

 accommodations,  optional excursions,  private touring.

Have a group already?

The following UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be seen or visited on this vacation:

 Meals

 meals & itinerary.

Full English breakfast daily; 7 three-course dinners with choice of menus

Headsets on tour except for London

 Itinerary

Day 1 arrive in london, england.

Check into your hotel. In the afternoon, there’s time to rest or to start exploring the lively British capital; uniformed hosts are available to help you make the most of your stay.

Day 2 LONDON

What’s your pleasure? Today is devoted to exploring on your own or enjoying our exciting program of optional activities. You may choose to join a Local Guide for an optional morning sightseeing tour of the city’s famous landmarks: the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall’s mounted horseguards and the Prime Minister’s Downing Street residence, Piccadilly Circus, and Buckingham Palace. The highlight is a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece built between 1675 and 1708. Later, maybe visit Windsor Castle or the Tower of London with its spectacular Crown Jewels. Tonight, we recommend our optional Taste of London excursion with dinner, followed by a guided illumination cruise on the River Thames.

Day 3 LONDON–OXFORD–STRATFORD-UPON-AVON–LEEDS

Meet your Tour Director and travel companions and depart at 8 am for a memorable day of sightseeing, including a walking tour of Oxford, one of the country’s oldest seats of learning; then, skirt the Cotswold Hills to Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon. Take photos of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and explore the town at your own pace. Overnight in Leeds. Today’s Distance: 249 mi/ 400 km

Day 4 LEEDS–YORK–NEWCASTLE

This morning, head north to York, England’s most complete medieval city. Stand in awe in front of the great structure of York Minster, then follow your Tour Director through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles. Stop for the night in Newcastle, once an important hub for the wool trade and coal mining and now a vibrant, modern city. Today’s Distance: 108 mi/ 174 km

Day 5 NEWCASTLE–JEDBURGH, SCOTLAND–EDINBURGH

See a section of Hadrian’s Wall, then motor through wild Northumberland National Park to the Scottish border. Stop for photos at Jedburgh before arriving in Edinburgh. Here, sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town”. In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels. A suggestion for this evening: a traditional Scottish night out with Highland dancers, bagpipers, and, of course, the Ceremony of the Haggis. Today's Distance: 117 mi/188 km

Day 6 EDINBURGH

Your choice today: an optional morning excursion to Rosslyn Chapel, made world-famous by Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code, and also one of Scotland’s most remarkable buildings. You will have ample time to visit the 15th-century medieval chapel and the visitor centre, and to take photographs of the ruins of Rosslyn Castle. Later, an optional tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia with dinner. For departures August 4, August 11 and August 18, tickets are included for tonight’s performance of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Day 7 EDINBURGH–ST. ANDREWS–PITLOCHRY–CULLODEN MOOR–INVERNESS–STRATHPEFFER

A day of memorable sightseeing. Take the elegant Forth Road Bridge to St. Andrews, whose Royal and Ancient Golf Club has given us the rules of golfing, then cross the Firth of Tay and, via Dundee and Perth, head into the Highlands, with a stop in the Victorian mountain resort of Pitlochry. Cross the battlefield of Culloden Moor with its memories of Bonnie Prince Charlie, then via Inverness, head for your Highland destination. Today’s Distance: 221 mi/ 355 km

Day 8 STRATHPEFFER. WEST COAST EXCURSION

More spectacular Scottish scenery: Dornoch Firth, the Kyle of Sutherland, the Falls of Shin, the Mountains of Assynt, and Knockan Crag. Then, follow Strath Oykel for a visit to Ullapool, a remote fishing harbor on Loch Broom, before returning along Loch Glascarnoch. Our recommendation for this afternoon: join the optional Loch Ness Experience, which includes a cruise on the loch, followed by supper. Today’s Distance: 123 mi/ 198 km

Day 9 STRATHPEFFER–FORT WILLIAM–GLASGOW

More heather-clad moors as you drive through the western Highlands all the way to Fort William beneath Ben Nevis. Glen Coe, where the MacDonald Clan was massacred in 1692, and a drive along the “Bonnie Banks” of Loch Lomond are scenic highlights on the way to Glasgow, Scotland’s great cultural city. Today’s Distance: 183 mi/ 295 km

Day 10 GLASGOW–ALLOWAY–BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND

On this morning’s orientation drive through Scotland’s largest city, see the fine 12th-century cathedral, imposing university buildings, and elegant Georgian squares, built by wealthy tobacco barons. Later, stop at Alloway, the birthplace of Robert Burns, before boarding the ferry for the Irish Sea, crossing to Belfast. Today’s Distance: 100 mi/ 160 km

Day 11 BELFAST–GIANT’S CAUSEWAY–DERRY–SLIGO, IRELAND

Take the scenic route along the Antrim Coast to awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, then let the province’s story unfold as you head for the city of Derry. Arrive in Sligo, tonight’s destination. Today’s Distance: 203 mi/ 327 km

Day 12 SLIGO–GALWAY–CLIFFS OF MOHER–LIMERICK

Travel south to Galway, a popular seaside destination and a buzzing cosmopolitan district with vibrant shops and a busy café and bar culture. Then, cross the limestone plateau of The Burren to visit the spectacular 668-foot Cliffs of Moher. Tonight, a chance to attend an optional medieval banquet at a historic castle. Today’s Distance: 181 mi/ 291 km

Day 13 LIMERICK–DINGLE PENINSULA–KILLARNEY

Via Adare and Tralee into County Kerry. Breathtaking scenery this afternoon on the Dingle Peninsula, where the 32-mile Slea Head drive affords magnificent vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Afternoon arrival in Killarney, your destination for the next two nights. Today’s Distance: 154 mi/ 249 km

Day 14 KILLARNEY. RING OF KERRY EXCURSION

At Killorglin, join the road known as the Ring of Kerry for a 100-mile coastal panoramic drive featuring sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly painted farmhouses, winding lanes bordered with subtropical vegetation, and spectacular views of the Lakes of Killarney. Then, a special optional adventure: take a horse-drawn jaunting car along the national park lakeshore for pictures of Ross Castle. Today’s Distance: 100 mi / 160 km

Day 15 KILLARNEY–BLARNEY–DUNGARVAN–TRAMORE

More scenic beauty as you head into County Cork. Stop in Blarney, famous for its Stone of Eloquence, with time at your leisure to see the castle, and shop for Irish crafts and handmade crystal. After lunch, drive past Cork, the country’s second-largest city. Finally, pass Dungarvan and travel along the Copper Coast to the seaside resort of Tramore. Tonight, maybe join an optional pub tour before dinner at your hotel. Today’s Distance: 131 mi/ 211 km

Day 16 TRAMORE–WATERFORD–KILKENNY–DUBLIN

On your northbound journey pause in Waterford, famous for its exquisite crystal, and visit Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s prettiest towns with medieval cobblestone streets and Old-World charm. Afternoon arrival in Dublin—top off the day with an optional Irish cabaret evening including dinner, dance, song, and laughter. Today’s Distance: 128 mi/ 205 km

Day 17 DUBLIN

A day in the “Fair City” starts off with an orientation drive through Ireland’s capital and includes statue-lined O’Connell Street, elegant Georgian squares, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The rest of the day is free to enjoy Dublin at leisure. This evening’s optional dinner excursion is to the famous Guinness Storehouse.

Day 18 DUBLIN–CAERNARFON, WALES–LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND

Take the ferry across the Irish Sea to Holyhead on the Welsh Isle of Anglesey with its tongue-twisting names. Explore North Wales on the way to Caernarfon where the castle saw the investiture of Charles as Prince of Wales, before arriving in Liverpool. Today’s Distance: 130 mi/ 209 km

Day 19 LIVERPOOL–BUILTH WELLS, WALES–BRECON–CARDIFF

A day dedicated to Wales as you head south through the ancient market town of Builth Wells and Brecon Beacons National Park, land of salmon rivers and the Welsh mountain pony. In Cardiff, an orientation drive takes in Cathays Park with its splendid civic buildings and Cardiff Castle. Tonight’s optional excursion is an evening of Welsh entertainment and dinner. Today’s Distance: 184 mi/ 296 km

Day 20 CARDIFF–BATH, ENGLAND–GLASTONBURY–WIDECOMBE–PLYMOUTH

Across the Severn Bridge to the elegant Georgian city of Bath, famed for its Roman relics. Into the West Country via Glastonbury and its legends of King Arthur, and wild and romantic Dartmoor with a visit to the picture-book village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Upon arrival in Plymouth, hear about Sir Francis Drake and see the Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers embarked in 1620. Today’s Distance: 198 mi/ 319 km

Day 21 PLYMOUTH. LOOE EXCURSION

Today’s excursion takes you to the pretty fishing village and former smuggler’s port of Looe. Then, follow in the footsteps of Drake, Raleigh, and the Pilgrim Fathers on an optional cruise on Plymouth Sound, one of the world’s greatest natural harbors. Today’s Distance: 45 mi/ 65 km

Day 22 PLYMOUTH–STONEHENGE–LONDON

An interesting day heading into Thomas Hardy’s Wessex and a visit to intriguing, prehistoric Stonehenge. Explore the visitor center with its imaginative exhibitions, then admire the magnificence of the monument up close. Return to London in the early evening. How about celebrating the success of your tour with a night out on the town? Today’s Distance: 215 mi/ 346 km

Day 23 LONDON

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

With COSMOS, there’s no better way to get to know your destination than through the eyes of a Tour Director. We’d like you to meet one of our Tour Directors, who average over a decade of experience and are representative of the type of expert that will be with you on your vacation.

WILL COLLINS

Escorting tours for more than 20 years

“ For more than 20 years now I've had the great pleasure of being a Globus and Cosmos tour guide. Nothing beats the joy of watching people from all walks of life get so excited about seeing an iconic site like the Tower of London or Ireland's Cliffs of Moher for the first time. Being central to this joy is what give us tour guides that great sense of satisfaction and reward from the work that we do and the friends we meet along the way. ”

No matter what you’re into: food, wine, history, art, music or anything else, we give you the freedom to personalize your vacation with optional excursions that speak to your interests.

When you book your excursions with us, you can be assured that every optional excursion that we offer coordinates with the free time that you'll have in your destination, so you'll never have conflicts between included and optional activities. Our team of travel experts carefully selects each optional excursion that we offer to ensure that you receive the highest quality at a great value. Our tried-and-true partners have a finger on the pulse of the city in which they operate so they deliver the very best experiences. We offer experiences you cannot create on your own and because you’re booking with us, we coordinate all your transportation and timing needs.

The following optional excursions are examples only for this vacation. These may or may not be offered, and availability is subject to days of operation and seasonality. Please select a departure date to view optional excursions and pricing for a specific date (due to currency fluctuation, pricing shown is subject to change until purchased). Optional excursions are available for purchase on our MyCosmos site 90 days prior to the tour start date.

A Taste of London

A traditional dining experience followed by a nighttime cruise along the Thames River, viewing some of the capital's most beautiful illuminated sights.

Price Range: $$$

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. It has been the family home of British kings and queens for almost 1,000 years and is today one of the official residences of His Majesty The King.

Price Range: $$

Morning City Sightseeing

Morning sightseeing with a Local Guide includes all the famous landmarks: the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben beside the River Thames, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall's mounted horseguards and the Prime Minister's Downing Street, Piccadilly Circus, and Buckingham Palace. The highlight is a visit to ST. PAUL'S CATHEDRAL, Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece built between 1675 and 1708.

Scottish Evening

No trip to Scotland is complete without an authentic Scottish evening filled with traditional food, drinks, singers, dancers, bagpipes, and, of course, the unforgettable Ceremony of the Haggis!

Royal Yacht Britannia and Dinner

Discover what life was like on board Her Majesty's floating residence during an exciting visit of the Royal Yacht Britannia, followed by dinner with wine at an excellent local restaurant!

Rosslyn Chapel

Put on your best detective hat and get ready to decipher the cryptic symbols and spellbinding mysteries of 15th-century Rosslyn Chapel, one of Scotland's most enigmatic places.

Price Range: $

Strathpeffer

Loch Ness Experience and Supper

The history, legends, and utter majesty of Scotland's most famous lake are revealed on this discovery featuring Loch Ness Centre, a scenic cruise, and dinner!

Medieval Castle Banquet

Step back in time at an original Irish medieval banquet. Enjoy a 4-course feast with wine, then relax as your medieval hosts dazzle you with unforgettable music and storytelling.

Jaunting Car Ride

A delightful horse-drawn jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park to legendary Ross Castle on the shores of Lough Leane.

Tramore Pub Evening

For local Irish flavor, take a scenic drive to a traditional pub with a local musician ready to entertain you and give you wonderful memories of this beautiful country. Two drinks of your choice are included.

Taylors Irish Cabaret

You won't want to miss this popular outing to the legendary Taylors Irish Cabaret, featuring a delicious dinner, drinks, and outstanding Irish music, dance, and comedy.

Guinness Storehouse Visit and Supper

Discover the history, traditions, and brewing techniques behind one of the world's most popular beer on this fascinating tour, tasting and dinner at Dublin's legendary Guinness Storehouse.

Liverpool City Tour

This private guided tour is an entertaining introduction to Liverpool, featuring the city's glorious maritime past, the cathedral, historic civic buildings, and sites made famous by the Beatles!

Welsh Evening

Experience Welsh culture at its finest during this memorable excursion featuring a dinner of local specialties, wine, and spirited folkloric entertainment.

Plymouth Harbor Cruise

Follow in the footsteps of Sir Francis Drake, Sir Walter Raleigh, and the Pilgrim Fathers on this narrated cruise on Plymouth Sound, one of the world's great natural harbors.

Private Touring: Cosmos European Private Touring enables you to experience all of the attractions, sights and highlights of your selected Cosmos tour as a private experience - delivered just for you and your traveling party. With Private Touring, you'll have your own dedicated Tour Director, your own private transportation and driver, and your own professional local guides. All with greater flexibility in pace and your experience. For your selected tour, there will be additional per-person cost for the size of your party - from 1 to 24. This additional supplement is reduced with each traveler you add to your party. Here's a sample of the additional cost:

Contact Cosmos or your preferred travel agent for pricing for your specific party size as well as any other information on Cosmos Private Touring.

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The British Isles in Depth ( 9090)

23 Day Tour from London to London

The British Isles in Depth

Starting at $ 4629

2024 Tour Details » 2025 Tour Details

•  Tour Highlights & Sightseeing
•  Itinerary and Meals
•  Tour Director
•  Accommodations

 Optional Excursions

•  Know Before You Go

From the lively cities to the breathtaking scenery, you’ll discover the best of England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and Northern Ireland on this in-depth Britain and Ireland tour. Britain and Ireland are known for their breathtaking scenery, and this tour will not disappoint. You’ll see the 100-mile Ring of Kerry, with its rugged and magnificent landscapes; stunning scenery on Ireland’s Dingle Peninsula; the spectacular 668-foot Cliffs of Moher; Northern Ireland’s awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, formed millions of years ago; and Brecon Beacons National Park, with its dramatic landscapes. Enjoy time in the Scottish Highlands, filled with dramatic landscapes, rolling farmland, picturesque seaside towns, and beautiful lochs (lakes). Britain and Ireland are also known for their picturesque and historic towns and cities. On this Britain and Ireland tour, you’ll visit many of these towns, including Oxford, home to some of England’s most famous colleges; Stratford-upon-Avon, where you’ll get a glimpse into life in 16th-century England in Shakespeare’s hometown; York, England's most complete medieval city with its cobbled streets and the magnificent York Minster, England’s largest Gothic cathedral; Berwick-upon-Tweed, a peaceful coastal town with a turbulent past; Strathpeffer, known in its Victorian heyday as a spa resort; Looe, a pretty fishing village; the seaside town of Tramore; Bath, known for the excavations of Roman baths used for bathing and socializing 2,000 years ago; and many more. You’ll also visit the capitals—London, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Dublin, and Belfast. These are just some of the many highlights of this tour through the British Isles. For value-minded vacationers, this is the perfect way to see England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and Northern Ireland! From the lively cities to the breathtaking scenery, you’ll discover the best of England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and Northern Ireland on this in-depth Britain and Ireland tour!

To know more about the visas for this vacation, click here

To know more about Indian Restaurants, click here

Similar Vacations

 tour highlights -->.

OXFORD Walking tour STRATFORD-UPON-AVON Discover Shakespeare’s home town YORK Walking tour EDINBURGH Guided sightseeing, visit Edinburgh Castle ST. ANDREWS Visit the home of golf PITLOCHRY Visit the Highland resort CULLODEN MOOR See the battlefield ISLE OF SKYE Drive across the Inner Hebridean island ARMADALE–MALLAIG by ferry GLASGOW Orientation drive CAIRNRYAN–BELFAST by ferry GIANT’S CAUSEWAY See the amazing basalt columns DERRY Visit the walled city BELLEEK Guided tour of the pottery factory GALWAY Visit the seaside town CLIFFS OF MOHER Savor the spectacular views KILLIMER–TARBERT Cross the Shannon estuary by ferry DINGLE PENINSULA DRIVE See the Blasket Islands KILLARNEY Visit the popular resort town RING OF KERRY Scenic peninsula drive BLARNEY Visit the famous village WATERFORD Visit the home of the famous crystal KILKENNY Visit the colorful town DUBLIN Orientation drive DUBLIN–HOLYHEAD by ferry CARDIFF Orientation drive BATH Visit the elegant Georgian city DARTMOOR Visit Widecombe-in-the-Moor PLYMOUTH See the Mayflower Steps CORNWALL Visit Looe STONEHENGE Visit the prehistoric monument BRIGHTON Visit the seaside resort

Host Service in London

Scenic Highlights: Cotswold Hills, Scottish Lowlands and Highlands, Isle of Skye, Loch Lomond, Northern Ireland’s Antrim Coast, The Burren, Dingle Peninsula, Ring of Kerry and Lakes of Killarney, Snowdonia National Park, Brecon Beacons National Park, Dartmoor National Park, Salisbury Plain

Headsets on tour except for London

World Heritage Sites are designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for having cultural, historical, scientific or other form of significance. The sites are judged to contain cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity.

The following UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be seen or visited on this vacation:

• City of Bath
• Frontiers of the Roman Empire
• Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast
• Old and New Towns of Edinburgh

Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi; round-trip Irish Sea crossings by day ferry; ferry across the Shannon estuary

 Meals

 meals & itinerary -->.

Full English breakfast daily, 6 Dinners

 Itinerary

Inside visits and special features are shown in UPPERCASE in the tour description.

ARRIVE IN LONDON, ENGLAND Check into your hotel. In the afternoon, there’s time to rest or to start exploring the lively British capital; uniformed hosts are available to help you make the most of your stay.

 Tour Director -->

With Cosmos, there’s no better way to get to know your destination than through the eyes of your Tour Director. Averaging over a decade... we’d like you to meet a Tour Director, who is representative of the type of expert that will be with you on your vacation.

SIMON KELLY

Escorting tours for more than 5 years

" I have been guiding with Globus since 2014 and I absolutely love it. I have always loved travelling because I think we get to see the best of people while they are relaxed and sharing new experiences every day. Showing people my home country of Ireland with all of its folklore, history, culture and quirks is always magical. "

WILL COLLINS

Escorting tours for more than 20 years

" For more than 20 years now I've had the great pleasure of being a Globus and Cosmos tour guide. Nothing beats the joy of watching people from all walks of life get so excited about seeing an iconic site like the Tower of London or Ireland's Cliffs of Moher for the first time. Being central to this joy is what give us tour guides that great sense of satisfaction and reward from the work that we do and the friends we meet along the way. "

 Accommodation -->

Holiday inn leeds garforth, leonardo hotel newcastle, leonardo hotel edinburgh murrayfield, strathpeffer, ben wyvis hotel, leonardo inn glasgow west end, leonardo hotel belfast, southern hotel sligo, limerick city hotel, the parkavon hotel, majestic hotel, the bonnington dublin hotel, leonardo hotel liverpool, novotel cardiff, leonardo hotel plymouth, novotel london west,  optional excursions -->.

The following optional excursions may or may not be offered, and availability is subject to days of operation and seasonality. Please select a departure date to view optional excursions and pricing for a specific date (due to currency fluctuation, pricing shown is subject to change until purchased).

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The British Isles in Depth

• In-depth Cultural
• Fully Guided
• Coach / Bus

Places You’ll See

• Introduction
• Day 1 ARRIVE IN LONDON, ENGLAND
• Day 2 LONDON
• Day 3 LONDON–OXFORD–STRATFORD-UPON-AVON–LEEDS
• Day 4 LEEDS–YORK–NEWCASTLE
• Day 5 NEWCASTLE–JEDBURGH, SCOTLAND–EDINBURGH
• Day 6 EDINBURGH
• Day 7 EDINBURGH–ST. ANDREWS–PITLOCHRY–CULLODEN MOOR–INVERNESS–STRATHPEFFER
• Day 8 STRATHPEFFER. WEST COAST EXCURSION
• Day 9 STRATHPEFFER–FORT WILLIAM–GLASGOW
• Day 10 GLASGOW–ALLOWAY–BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND
• Day 11 BELFAST–GIANT’S CAUSEWAY–DERRY–SLIGO, IRELAND
• Day 12 SLIGO–GALWAY–CLIFFS OF MOHER–LIMERICK
• Day 13 LIMERICK–DINGLE PENINSULA–KILLARNEY
• Day 14 KILLARNEY. RING OF KERRY EXCURSION
• Day 15 KILLARNEY–BLARNEY–DUNGARVAN–TRAMORE
• Day 16 TRAMORE–WATERFORD–KILKENNY–DUBLIN
• Day 17 DUBLIN
• Day 18 DUBLIN–CAERNARFON, WALES–LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND
• Day 19 LIVERPOOL–BUILTH WELLS, WALES–BRECON–CARDIFF
• Day 20 CARDIFF–BATH, ENGLAND–GLASTONBURY–WIDECOMBE–PLYMOUTH
• Day 21 PLYMOUTH. LOOE EXCURSION
• Day 22 PLYMOUTH–STONEHENGE–LONDON
• Day 23 LONDON

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Where You'll Stay

Customer photos.

Operated by Cosmos

The Cosmos Story. For nearly 60 years, Cosmos has done something remarkable: Bringing the world to people; and people to the world. By pioneering value touring vacations, we have a long history of turning travel dreams into reality. We make possible “never thought I would” or “never imagined I could” moments by making travel attainable and easy. And in doing that, we help travelers expand their horizons, clear their heads and open their hearts to the world around them. Cosmos understands that adventure is waiting for us – all of us – out in the world. And there simply is no better time than the present to discover new sights, new sensations and new experiences. That’s why we pride ourselves in turning “what if” moments into “I did” realizations. With our new look and feel, we’re celebrating this ideal and the unparalleled and attainable access we offer our travelers to the globe with value-centric vacations in 64 countries, on six continents. Let the unexpected begin. Let awe-inspiring take over. Adventure is knocking. As a Cosmos traveler, we know you will answer – as you always have – by finding adventure in the world around you.

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Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 5.0
• Itinerary Good 4.0
• Guide Good 4.0
• Transport Excellent 4.5
• Accommodation Good 4.0
• Food Excellent 4.5
• Tour Operator Cosmos 4.9
• Most Recent
• Most Popular
• Highest First
• Lowest First
• A Carol · 13th October 2023 We thoroughly enjoyed our British Isles indepth tour with Cosmos. Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Heather · 13th October 2023 Our tour guide Andrew was amazing,so knowledgeable on everywhere we traveled,he told some great stories / history and more,& Barry our driver was excellent,the coach was clean - both inside and out daily,& great at driving. Trip date: May 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Rodney · 8th October 2023 My wife & I are very satisfied with our Cosmos UK tour. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable about the locations we visited and their history. The drivers drove the big coaches expertly through some very skinny roads and tight town corners. All... Show more Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Susan (sue) · 8th October 2023 My first cosmos trip and first big bus trip. Previously done small group travel. Delighted with way trip allowed both free time and organized time. Itinerary was great. Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Bruce · 8th October 2023 Overall tour lived up to expectations. Some great sights locations. Information from guide was amazing. Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Elizabeth · 8th October 2023 The itinerary was fabulous. Amazing tour director and driver Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Rebecca · 1st October 2023 Steve and Deb were amazing and added a new level to the tour! Our group had an amazing time and I seen so much of the UK and Ireland. Thank you for such an organised and knowledgeable tour Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Norm · 1st October 2023 We seen many locations that we wouldn't have even thought of if doing on our own. Trip date: September 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Anonymous · 5th August 2023 Trip was excellent,loved the Scottish Highlands,the scenery was amazing,all the places were interesting of the entire British Isles,friendly people everywhere,great food and wonderful memories of all. Trip date: May 2023 Review collected by Cosmos
• A Denise Ann · 12th July 2023 Very well organised tour. We enjoyed our last Cosmos 15 days Tour of Italy back in 2008. Trip date: June 2023 Review collected by Cosmos

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• August 2024
• September 2024
• August 2025
• September 2025
• Sunday 12 May, 2024 Monday 3 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €4,786 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 19 May, 2024 Monday 10 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €4,786 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 26 May, 2024 Monday 17 Jun, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €4,786 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 9 Jun, 2024 Monday 1 Jul, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €4,748 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• 3 Other Unavailable Departures
• Get Instant Confirmation Sunday 23 Jun, 2024 Monday 15 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €4,748 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Sunday 7 Jul, 2024 Monday 29 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €4,748 Confirm Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Sunday 21 Jul, 2024 Monday 12 Aug, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €4,748 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Sunday 4 Aug, 2024 Monday 26 Aug, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €4,910 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 11 Aug, 2024 Monday 2 Sep, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €4,910 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 18 Aug, 2024 Monday 9 Sep, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €4,910 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 1 Sep, 2024 Monday 23 Sep, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €4,748 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Sunday 8 Sep, 2024 Monday 30 Sep, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €4,748 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• 4 Other Unavailable Departures
• Get Instant Confirmation Sunday 15 Sep, 2024 Monday 7 Oct, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €4,728 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates
• Sunday 22 Sep, 2024 Monday 14 Oct, 2024 English Sold Out Based on Double Room €4,728 See Similar Tours For These Dates
• Get Instant Confirmation Sunday 29 Sep, 2024 Monday 21 Oct, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €4,432 0% Interest Instalments Confirm Dates

Frequently Asked Questions

The vast majority of sights listed in the itinerary will be seen on foot, with plenty of time to look around. Others will be seen on a coach tour with pauses where possible for taking photos. The itinerary will outline sights which you will get the chance to discover in-depth.

The maximum amount of passengers able to take this tour is 50, however, group numbers will often be below this and are usually around 35 - 45 depending on the season.

It is optional to tip your tour manager and driver at the end of the tour, however other tips throughout the tour to service providers are included in the price.

TourRadar specializes in giving you the best tours from around the world, however the tours we offer do not include airfare and we do not book or advise on airfare. You will be responsible for booking your flights to meet with the group at the starting city. We do not recommend booking airfare before confirming your tour. A good website to search for great prices would be kayak.com and/or skyscanner.com

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Good to Know

• Currencies € Euro Ireland £ Pound Sterling England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

As a traveller from USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for type G.

• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 22nd June 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 22nd June 2024, a minimum payment of €250 is required to confirm your booking with Cosmos. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 50 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Cosmos will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Cosmos" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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The British Isles in Depth

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Highlights of Scotland

Check into your hotel. In the afternoon, there’s time to rest or to start exploring the lively British capital; uniformed hosts are available to help you make the most of your stay.

This morning, head north to York, England’s most complete medieval city. Stand in awe in front of the great structure of York Minster, then follow your Tour Director through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles. Stop for the night in Newcastle, once an important hub for the wool trade and coal mining and now a vibrant, modern city. (Breakfast) Today’s Distance: 108 mi/ 174 km

More heather-clad moors as you drive through the western Highlands all the way to Fort William beneath Ben Nevis. Glen Coe, where the MacDonald Clan was massacred in 1692, and a drive along the “Bonnie Banks” of Loch Lomond are scenic highlights on the way to Glasgow, Scotland’s great cultural city. (Breakfast,Dinner) Today’s Distance: 183 mi/ 295 km

On this morning’s orientation drive through Scotland’s largest city, see the fine 12th-century cathedral, imposing university buildings, and elegant Georgian squares, built by wealthy tobacco barons. Later, stop at Alloway, the birthplace of Robert Burns, before boarding the ferry for the Irish Sea, crossing to Belfast. (Breakfast) Today’s Distance: 100 mi/ 160 km

Take the scenic route along the Antrim Coast to awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, then let the province’s story unfold as you head for the city of Derry. Arrive in Sligo, tonight’s destination. (Breakfast,Dinner) Today’s Distance: 203 mi/ 327 km

Travel south to Galway, a popular seaside destination and a buzzing cosmopolitan district with vibrant shops and a busy café and bar culture. Then, cross the limestone plateau of The Burren to visit the spectacular 668-foot Cliffs of Moher. Tonight, a chance to attend an optional medieval banquet at a historic castle. (Breakfast) Today’s Distance: 181 mi/ 291 km

Via Adare and Tralee into County Kerry. Breathtaking scenery this afternoon on the Dingle Peninsula, where the 32-mile Slea Head drive affords magnificent vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Afternoon arrival in Killarney, your destination for the next two nights. (Breakfast,Dinner) Today’s Distance: 154 mi/ 249 km

On your northbound journey pause in Waterford, famous for its exquisite crystal, and visit Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s prettiest towns with medieval cobblestone streets and Old-World charm. Afternoon arrival in Dublin—top off the day with an optional Irish cabaret evening including dinner, dance, song, and laughter. (Breakfast) Today’s Distance: 128 mi/ 205 km

A day in the “Fair City” starts off with an orientation drive through Ireland’s capital and includes statue-lined O’Connell Street, elegant Georgian squares, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The rest of the day is free to enjoy Dublin at leisure. This evening’s optional dinner excursion is to the famous Guinness Storehouse. (Breakfast)

Take the ferry across the Irish Sea to Holyhead on the Welsh Isle of Anglesey with its tongue-twisting names. Explore North Wales on the way to Caernarfon where the castle saw the investiture of Charles as Prince of Wales, before arriving in Liverpool. (Breakfast) Today’s Distance: 130 mi/ 209 km

Today’s excursion takes you to the pretty fishing village and former smuggler’s port of Looe. Then, follow in the footsteps of Drake, Raleigh, and the Pilgrim Fathers on an optional cruise on Plymouth Sound, one of the world’s greatest natural harbors. (Breakfast) Today’s Distance: 45 mi/ 65 km

An interesting day heading into Thomas Hardy’s Wessex and a visit to intriguing, prehistoric Stonehenge. Explore the visitor center with its imaginative exhibitions, then admire the magnificence of the monument up close. Return to London in the early evening. How about celebrating the success of your tour with a night out on the town? (Breakfast) Today’s Distance: 215 mi/ 346 km

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)

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Dates & Availability

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Cosmos .

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Cosmos Reviews & Ratings

Other cosmos reviews.

We've taken over 10 group tours using Cosmos and Gate1. This trip last month, 9000 was not very good. -During booking, incorrect information was given about airport-...

Happy Traveler from US

Excellent Experience and Excellent Guide

I would highly recommend this company and some trips to Scandinavia and Baltic. The countries are amazing, the service and our guide Ausra Paukste was really the bes...

Tangobeauty

Great Cosmos Value

I am a budget solo female traveler. I have traveled with COSMOS for about 20 years in the past, all over Europe, Switzerland, Turkey, etc. The best thing is that I n...

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Since inventing the budget vacation over 50 years ago, Cosmos has offered savvy, value-minded travelers the most affordable travel packages to the world's most captivating places - from the City of Brotherly Love to the City of Light…from the Great White North to northern Africa…from tropical Hawaii to sub-tropical Lugano, Switzerland…from the rainforests of Brazil to the Lost "City of the Incas." Our incredible value helps travel buffs travel more often.

We understand that you want to get out and experience the world. And that you'd rather spend another day in London than have a chocolate on your pillow. That's why Cosmos vacation packages include comfortable, clean, and attractive pre-selected hotels; guided city sightseeing; a dynamic assortment of transportation…to make getting there half the fun; and many meals. Our clout with suppliers is concentrated…and we pass the savings on to you.

With Cosmos, you'll enjoy the benefits, security, and convenience of escorted travel, an expert Tour Director, a greater choice of activities and excursions, and longer stays in key cities so that you can truly immerse yourself in the local culture.

You can also personalize your getaway, thanks to well-designed itineraries that feature the must-see sites as well as significant free time to explore your destination the way you want.

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The British Isles in Depth

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Day 1 : Arrive In London,England

Location: london, accommodation: hotel, accommodation name: novotel london west.

Check into your hotel. In the afternoon, there’s time to rest or to start exploring the lively British capital; uniformed hosts are available to help you make the most of your stay.

Day 2 : London

Meals included: breakfast.

What’s your pleasure? Today is devoted to exploring on your own or enjoying our exciting program of optional activities. You may choose to join a Local Guide for an optional morning sightseeing tour of the city’s famous landmarks: the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall’s mounted horseguards and the Prime Minister’s Downing Street residence, Piccadilly Circus, and Buckingham Palace. The highlight is a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece built between 1675 and 1708. Later, maybe visit Windsor Castle or the Tower of London with its spectacular Crown Jewels. Tonight, we recommend our optional Taste of London excursion with dinner, followed by a guided illumination cruise on the River Thames.

Day 3 : London,Oxford,Stratford-Upon-Avon,Wetherby

Location: london, oxford, oxford, stratford-upon-avon, stratford-upon-avon, wetherby, wetherby, accommodation name: mercure wetherby hotel, meals included: breakfast, dinner.

Meet your Tour Director and travel companions and depart at 8 am for a memorable day of sightseeing, including a walking tour of Oxford, one of the country’s oldest seats of learning; then, skirt the Cotswold Hills to Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon. Take photos of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and explore the town at your own pace. Overnight in Wetherby. Today’s Distance: 255 mi/ 410 km

Day 4 : Wetherby,York,Newcastle

Location: wetherby, york, newcastle upon tyne, newcastle upon tyne, accommodation name: jurys inn newcastle.

This morning, head north to York, England’s most complete medieval city. Stand in awe in front of the great structure of York Minster, then follow your Tour Director through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles. Stop for the night in Newcastle, once an important hub for the wool trade and coal mining and now a vibrant, modern city. Today’s Distance: 103 mi/ 166 km

Day 5 : Newcastle,Berwick-Upon-Tweed,North Berwick,Scotland,Edinburgh

Location: newcastle upon tyne, berwick-upon-tweed, north berwick, scotland, scotland, edinburgh, edinburgh, accommodation name: leonardo hotel edinburgh murrayfield.

On your way to Scotland, drive along the picturesque coastline to Berwick-upon-Tweed, situated just south of the Scottish border. This peaceful town suffered a turbulent past, and its Elizabethan walls, built to keep invading Scots from entering the town, could tell a curious tale. Stop for photographs of the Firth of Forth in pretty North Berwick before arriving in Edinburgh. Later, join an optional tour with dinner. For departures August 6 and August 20, tickets are included for tonight’s performance of the world-renowned Military Tattoo. Today’s Distance: 121 mi/ 195 km

Day 6 : Edinburgh

Location: edinburgh.

A full day to enjoy the Scottish capital. Morning sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town,” home to famous scientists, inventors, and novelists. In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels. Afternoon at leisure. A suggestion for this evening: a traditional Scottish night out, with Highland dancers, bagpipers, and, of course, the Ceremony of the Haggis.

Day 7 : Edinburgh,St. Andrews,Pitlochry,Culloden Moor,Inverness,Strathpeffer

Location: edinburgh, st andrews, pitlochry, culloden moor, culloden moor, strathpeffer, strathpeffer, accommodation name: ben wyvis hotel.

A day of memorable sightseeing. Take the elegant Forth Road Bridge to St. Andrews, whose Royal and Ancient Golf Club has given us the rules of golfing, then cross the Firth of Tay and, via Dundee and Perth, head into the Highlands, with a stop in the Victorian mountain resort of Pitlochry. Cross the battlefield of Culloden Moor with its memories of Bonnie Prince Charlie, then via Inverness, head for your Highland destination. Today’s Distance: 221 mi/ 355 km

Day 8 : Strathpeffer. West Coast Excursion

Location: strathpeffer.

More spectacular Scottish scenery: Dornoch Firth, the Kyle of Sutherland, the Falls of Shin, the Mountains of Assynt, and Knockan Crag. Then, follow Strath Oykel for a visit to Ullapool, a remote fishing harbor on Loch Broom, before returning along Loch Glascarnoch. Our recommendation for this afternoon: join the optional Loch Ness Experience, which includes a cruise on the loch, followed by supper. Today’s Distance: 123 mi/ 198 km

Day 9 : Fort William,Glasgow

Location: fort william, glasgow, accommodation name: leonardo inn glasgow west end.

More heather-clad moors as you drive through the western Highlands all the way to Fort William beneath Ben Nevis. Glen Coe, where the MacDonald Clan was massacred in 1692, and a drive along the “Bonnie Banks” of Loch Lomond are scenic highlights on the way to Glasgow, Scotland’s great cultural city. Today’s Distance: 183 mi/ 295 km

Day 10 : Glasgow,Alloway,Belfast,Northern Ireland

Location: glasgow, alloway, belfast, belfast, accommodation name: jurys inn belfast.

On this morning’s orientation drive through Scotland’s largest city, see the fine 12th-century cathedral, imposing university buildings, and elegant Georgian squares, built by wealthy tobacco barons. Later, stop at Alloway, the birthplace of Robert Burns, before boarding the ferry for the Irish Sea, crossing to Belfast. Today’s Distance: 100 mi/ 160 km

Day 11 : Belfast,Giant’S Causeway,Derry,Belleek,Sligo,Ireland

Location: belfast, giant's causeway, londonderry, belleek, belleek, sligo, sligo, accommodation name: southern hotel sligo.

Take the scenic route along the Antrim Coast to awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, then let the province’s story unfold as you head for the city of Derry. Later, visit Belleek Pottery, renowned for its exquisite cream-colored Parian china, before arriving in Sligo, tonight’s destination. Today’s Distance: 214 mi/ 344 km

Day 12 : Sligo,Galway,Cliffs Of Moher,Ennis

Location: sligo, galway, cliffs of moher, ennis, ennis, accommodation: lodge, accommodation name: auburn lodge hotel.

Travel south to Galway, a popular seaside destination and a buzzing cosmopolitan district with vibrant shops and a busy café and bar culture. Then, cross the limestone plateau of The Burren to visit the spectacular 668-foot Cliffs of Moher. Tonight, a chance to attend an optional medieval banquet at a historic castle. Today’s Distance: 161 mi/ 260 km

Day 13 : Ennis,Dingle Peninsula,Killarney

Location: ennis, killarney, accommodation name: the parkavon hotel.

Via Clonderlaw Bay to Killimer for the ferry across the Shannon estuary. Breathtaking scenery this afternoon on the Dingle Peninsula, where the 32-mile Slea Head drive affords magnificent vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Afternoon arrival in Killarney, your destination for the next two nights. Today’s Distance: 125 mi/ 201 km

Day 14 : Killarney. Ring Of Kerry Excursion

Location: ring of kerry, killarney.

At Killorglin, join the road known as the Ring of Kerry for a 100-mile coastal panoramic drive featuring sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly painted farmhouses, winding lanes bordered with subtropical vegetation, and spectacular views of the Lakes of Killarney. Then, a special optional adventure: take a horse-drawn jaunting car along the national park lakeshore for pictures of Ross Castle. Later, enjoy the optional outing to Tralee for dinner and a performance at Siamsa Tire, Ireland’s National Folk Theatre. Today’s Distance: 100 mi / 160 km

Day 15 : Killarney,Blarney,Dungarvan,Tramore

Location: killarney, blarney, dungarvan, tramore, accommodation name: majestic hotel.

More scenic beauty as you head into County Cork. Stop in Blarney, famous for its Stone of Eloquence, with time at your leisure to see the castle, and shop for Irish crafts and handmade crystal. After lunch, drive past Cork, the country’s second-largest city. Finally, pass Dungarvan and travel along the Copper Coast to the seaside resort of Tramore. Tonight, maybe join an optional pub tour before dinner at your hotel. Today’s Distance: 131 mi/ 211 km

Day 16 : Tramore,Waterford,Kilkenny,Dublin

Location: tramore, waterford, kilkenny, dublin, accommodation name: the bonnington dublin hotel.

On your northbound journey pause in Waterford, famous for its exquisite crystal, and visit Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s prettiest towns with medieval cobblestone streets and Old-World charm. Afternoon arrival in Dublin—top off the day with an optional Irish cabaret evening including dinner, dance, song, and laughter. Today’s Distance: 128 mi/ 205 km

Day 17 : Dublin

Location: dublin.

A day in the “Fair City” starts off with an orientation drive through Ireland’s capital and includes statue-lined O’Connell Street, elegant Georgian squares, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The rest of the day is free to enjoy Dublin at leisure. This evening’s optional dinner excursion is to the famous Guinness Storehouse.

Day 18 : Dublin,Caernarvon,Wales,Liverpool,England

Location: dublin, caernarfon, wales, liverpool, accommodation name: jurys inn liverpool.

Take the ferry across the Irish Sea to Holyhead on the Welsh Isle of Anglesey with its tongue-twisting names. Explore North Wales on the way to Caernarvon where the castle saw the investiture of Charles as Prince of Wales, before arriving in Liverpool. Today’s Distance: 180 mi/ 290 km

Day 19 : Liverpool,Builth Wells,Wales,Brecon,Cardiff

Location: liverpool, builth wells, wales, brecon, cardiff, accommodation name: novotel cardiff.

A day dedicated to Wales as you head south through the ancient market town of Builth Wells and Brecon Beacons National Park, land of salmon rivers and the Welsh mountain pony. In Cardiff, an orientation drive takes in Cathays Park with its splendid civic buildings and Cardiff Castle. Tonight’s optional excursion is an evening of Welsh entertainment and dinner. Today’s Distance: 174 mi/ 281 km

Day 20 : Cardiff,Bath,England,Glastonbury,Widecombe,Plymouth

Location: cardiff, bath, glastonbury, widecombe in the moor, plymouth, accommodation name: jurys inn plymouth.

Across the Severn Bridge to the elegant Georgian city of Bath, famed for its Roman relics. Into the West Country via Glastonbury and its legends of King Arthur, and wild and romantic Dartmoor with a visit to the picture-book village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Upon arrival in Plymouth, hear about Sir Francis Drake and see the Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers embarked in 1620. Today’s Distance: 198 mi/ 319 km

Day 21 : Plymouth. Looe Excursion

Location: looe, plymouth.

Today’s excursion takes you to the pretty fishing village and former smuggler’s port of Looe. Then, follow in the footsteps of Drake, Raleigh, and the Pilgrim Fathers on an optional cruise on Plymouth Sound, one of the world’s greatest natural harbors. Today’s Distance: 45 mi/ 65 km

Day 22 : Plymouth,Stonehenge,London

Location: plymouth, stonehenge, stonehenge, london, london.

An interesting day heading into Thomas Hardy’s Wessex and a visit to intriguing, prehistoric Stonehenge. Explore the visitor center with its imaginative exhibitions, then admire the magnificence of the monument up close. Return to London in the early evening. How about celebrating the success of your tour with a night out on the town? Today’s Distance: 215 mi/ 346 km

Day 23 : London

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

What's Included

Accommodation

It may occasionally be necessary to use alternative hotels of a similar standard to those shown.

Breakfast-22 Dinner-7

What's Not Included

Tipping and Gratuities

International Travel

UNESCO Sites

City of Bath|Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape|Forth Road Bridge|Frontiers of the Roman Empire|Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coast|Old and New Towns of Edinburgh|Stonehenge|The great Spa Towns of Europe - Bath

Check out our Q&As

Will i know the names and details of all the accommodation before i depart, are children permitted to take part in the tour, are the local guides on the tour english speaking, are flights included in this tour, will passengers from another country be participating in the tour, how long has the tour company been trading, what ethical travel credentials does the tour company have.

Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.

What documents will I receive before I travel?

Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.

Reviews of this operator

We have just returned from a cosmos….

We have just returned from a Cosmos tour- Gourmet Tuscany. We stayed in Montecatini Terme and traveled from there to many wonderful places, in towns and the fabulous Tuscan countryside. We visit Vineyards for wine tastings, farms for cooking lessons and lunches and dinners in authentic Italian restaurants. All assisted by a friendly, informative tour director. First class holiday

Excellent in every respect

I recently did a 2-week "best of Italy" tour with this company. Our guide, Daniella, was fantastic, the itinerary was excellent and they catered for my rather difficult dietary requirements really well. Really happy and will certainly book with them again

A wonderrful experience

WE saw so much. The tour director Mladin was very knowledgeable and made the experience so enjoyable. The bus driver Paul was so nice and helpful. A couple of the hotels had no refrigerators to keep the water cold. We had to carry our own luggage to and from the rooms. There should have been porters to help us. Over all we had a great time.

Old South &Florida tour

Great organisation, tour guide(Kris) and driver(Tony) who went extra mile and good group of people from all over world. The hotels were excellent in New Orleans and Nashville and very good in other cities. The itinerary was well thought out with visits to Gracelands and Grande ole Oprey topping the bill. We added 3extra nights in New Orleans (giving us 6nights) which was absolutely fab and would advise anyone doing this tour that they consider some extra nights to see and do as much as you can

The tour director expertise and…

The tour director expertise and personality made the trip all the more pleasant. No stress. The local guides as well added to the beauty of this trip. They were knowledgeable and personable. I also have to mention the travelers (the group of 21). The people were friendly an accommodating. This is my third trip with this tour company and I will continue to travel with this company due to excellent planning and customer service. Thank you

Dates & Availability

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Sunday - Monday

Operator discount: -$126 (USD)

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Operator discount: -$251 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$139 (USD)

The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$140 (USD)

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Book with Confidence

Low deposit.

Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

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We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.

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24 Day The British Isles In Depth – Cosmos

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• Tour Overview

Cosmos Coach Tour starting in London and finishing in London

This extensive vacation covers the British Isles – Scotland, England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, and Wales. No other tour is as complete. Begin your trip with two overnights in London and time to explore on your own or to take an optional tour. Head to Henry VIII’s Hampton Court Palace; enjoy a walking tour of Oxford, where Britain’s elite receive their education; and via the exquisite Cotswolds to Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon and Lady Godiva’s Coventry. Continue on to York, England’s most complete medieval city, for a walking tour with your Tour Director. See a section of Hadrian’s Wall, the Roman coast-to-coast defense against marauding northern tribes, and enter Scotland for two overnights in regal Edinburgh. In the Scottish capital, your tour includes a visit to mighty Edinburgh Castle. On to St. Andrews, home of golf, and via Dundee and Perth to the Victorian mountain resort of Pitlochry. Then cross the battlefield of Culloden Moor on the way to your Highland destination. Enjoy an excursion to the spectacular west coast of Scotland, then arrive on the beautiful Isle of Skye. Scenic highlights await you on the way to Glasgow, and an orientation drive acquaints you with the major attractions. Ferry to Belfast in Northern Ireland and visit remarkable Giant’s Causeway on the way to Derry. Travel to Knock, where pilgrims flock to the Marian Shrine; see the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher; and drink in the scenery on the Dingle Peninsula and along the gorgeous Ring of Kerry. Visit popular Killarney; Blarney, known for its Stone of Eloquence; and Waterford, famous for its crystal. Stop at Ireland’s oldest handweaving mill at Avoca and enjoy Glendalough with its ruins of St. Kevin’s Centre of Irish Christianity. In Dublin, Ireland’s capital, an orientation drive shows you the sites. Then, ferry back across the Irish Sea to Holyhead and travel south through scenic Wales with stops in Wrexham and Cardiff. Return to England and explore elegant Georgian Bath, famous for its Roman ruins. Hear about King Arthur in Glastonbury, stop in Widecombe-in-the-Moor, and in Plymouth, see where the Pilgrim Fathers embarked on their monumental journey in 1620. Also see St. Michael’s Mount and Land’s End on the way to the seaside town of St. Ives. Experience mysterious Stonehenge, overnight in Brighton, and take a break in Royal Tunbridge Wells before returning to London for the finale of your awesome adventure.

Day 1 Arrive In London, England

Check into your hotel. In the afternoon, there’s time to rest or to start exploring the lively British capital; uniformed hosts are available to help you make the most of your stay.

Day 2 London

What’s your pleasure? Today is devoted to exploring on your own or enjoying our exciting program of optional activities. You may choose to join a Local Guide for an optional morning sightseeing tour of the city’s famous landmarks: the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall’s mounted horseguards and the Prime Minister’s Downing Street, Piccadilly Circus, and Buckingham Palace. Highlights include a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral and the ceremonial pageantry of the Changing of the Guard (if held). Later on, maybe visit Windsor Castle or the Tower of London with its spectacular Crown Jewels, and tonight, a leisurely cruise on the Thames River would be fun! (B)

Day 3 London – Oxford – Stratford-Upon-Avon – Coventry

Meet your Tour Director and travelling companions and depart at 8 am for a memorable day of sightseeing: a photo opportunity at Hampton Court Palace; Runnymede, where King John sealed the Magna Carta; a walking tour in Oxford, one of the country’s oldest seats of learning; and skirting the Cotswold Hills to Shakespeare’s Stratford upon- Avon. Take photos of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and explore the town at your own pace. Overnight is near Coventry . (B/D)

Day 4 Coventry – York – Newcastle

Leave the Midlands and head north to York , England’s most complete medieval city. Stand in awe in front of the great structure of York Minster, then follow your Tour Director through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles. Stop for the night in Newcastle, once an important centre for the wool trade and coal mining and now a vibrant modern city. (B/D)

Day 5 Newcastle – Jedburgh, Scotland – Melrose – Edinburgh

See a section of Hadrian’s Wall, the Roman coast-to-coast defence against marauding northern tribes, then motor through wild Northumberland National Park to the Scottish border. Stop for photos at Jedburgh, with glimpses of the house of Mary, Queen of Scots, and then Melrose with its 12th-century abbey ruins and connections with Robert the Bruce. Later, a unique optional experience: board the former Royal Yacht Britannia, which was once the perfect royal residence for glittering state visits and family holidays. Tour five decks and see how the Royal Family and crew of 240 lived and worked on board. Dinner rounds off this optional evening. For departure numbers 0731 through 0821, tickets are included for tonight’s performance of the world renowned MILITARY TATTOO. (B)

Day 6 Edinburgh

A full day to enjoy the Scottish capital. Morning sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town” and famous scientists, inventors, and novelists. In the “Old Town,” drive up the narrow Royal Mile to EDINBURGH CASTLE to admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels. Afternoon at leisure. A suggestion for this evening: a traditional Scottish night out with Highland dancers, bagpipers, and, of course, the Ceremony of the Haggis. (B)

Day 7 Edinburgh – St. Andrews – Dundee – Perth – Pitlochry – Culloden Moor – Inverness – Strathpeffer

A day of memorable sightseeing. Take the elegant Forth Road Bridge to St. Andrews, whose Royal and Ancient Golf Club has given us the rules of golfing, then cross the Firth of Tay and via Dundee and Perth, head into the Highlands, with a stop in the Victorian mountain resort of Pitlochry. Cross the battlefield of Culloden Moor with its memories of Bonnie Prince Charlie, then via Inverness, head for your Highland destination. (B/D)

Day 8 Strathpeffer. West Coast Excursion

More spectacular Scottish scenery: Dornoch Firth, the Kyle of Sutherland, the Mountains of Assynt, and Knockan Crag. Then, follow Strath Oykel for a visit to Ullapool, a remote fishing harbor on Loch Broom, before returning along Loch Glascarnoch. Our recommendation for this evening: join the optional Loch Ness Experience, which includes a cruise on the loch, followed by supper. (B)

Day 9 Strathpeffer – Isle Of Skye – Fort William – Glasgow

More heather-clad moors as you drive through the western Highlands to Lochalsh and the Inner Hebridean Isle of Skye. The route back to the mainland is by FERRY across the Sound of Sleat to Mallaig, then breathtaking scenery all the way to Fort William beneath Ben Nevis. Glen Coe, where the MacDonald Clan was massacred in 1692, and a drive along the “Bonnie Banks” of Loch Lomond are scenic highlights on the way to Glasgow, Scotland’s great cultural city. (B/D)

Day 10 Glasgow – Alloway – Belfast, Northern Ireland

On this morning’s orientation drive through Scotland’s largest city, see the fine 12th-century cathedral, imposing university buildings, and elegant Georgian squares, built by wealthy tobacco barons. Later, stop at Alloway, the birthplace of Robert Burns, before boarding the FERRY for the Irish Sea crossing to Belfast. Consider joining tonight’s optional excursion: a “living history” tour of this fascinating city in the company of a Local Guide. (B)

Day 11 Belfast – Giant’s Causeway – Derry – Belleek – Drumcliff, Ireland – Sligo

Take the scenic route along the Antrim Coast to awe-inspiring GIANT’S CAUSEWAY, then let the province’s story unfold as you head for the city of Derry, and, later, BELLEEK POTTERY, renowned for its exquisite cream-coloured Parian china. At Drumcliff, see the grave of native son and poet W.B.Yeats before arriving in Sligo, tonight’s destination. (B/D)

Day 12 Sligo – Knock – Galway – Cliffs Of Moher – Ennis

Travel south to Galway, a popular seaside destination and a buzzing cosmopolitan centre with colourful shops and a busy cafe and bar culture. Then, cross the limestone plateau of The Burren to visit the spectacular 204-metre (668-foot) CLIFFS OF MOHER. Tonight, a chance to attend an optional banquet at Bunratty Castle. (B)

Day 13 Ennis – Dingle Peninsula – Killarney

Via Clonderlaw Bay to Killimer for the FERRY across the Shannon estuary. Breathtaking scenery this afternoon on the Dingle Peninsula, where the 51-kilometre (32-mile) Slea Head drive affords magnificent vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Afternoon arrival in Killarney, your destination for the next two nights. (B/D)

Day 14 Killarney. Ring Of Kerry Excursion

At Killorglin, join the road known as the RING OF KERRY for a 160-kilometre (100-mile) coastal panoramic drive: sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly coloured farmhouses, winding lanes bordered with subtropical vegetation, and spectacular views of the Lakes of Killarney. Then, a special optional adventure: take a horse-drawn jaunting car along the national park lakeshore for pictures of Ross Castle. Later, enjoy the optional outing to Tralee for dinner and a performance at Siamsa Tire, Ireland’s National Folk Theatre. (B)

Day 15 Killarney – Blarney – Dungarvan – Tramore

More scenic splendour as you head into County Cork. Stop in Blarney , famous for its Stone of Eloquence, with time at your leisure to see the castle and shop for Irish crafts and handmade crystal. After lunch, drive past Cork, the country’s second-largest city. Finally, Dungarvan and along the Copper Coast to the seaside resort of Tramore. Tonight, maybe join an optional pub tour before dinner at your hotel. (B/D)

Day 16 Tramore – Waterford – Avoca – Glendalough – Dublin

Highlights on your northbound journey: Waterford, famed for its exquisite crystal; Enniscorthy, site of the final battle of the Great Rebellion of 1798; a visit to Ireland’s oldest HANDWEAVING mill at Avoca; views of the Wicklow Mountains; and Glendalough with its ruins of a centre of Irish Christianity, founded by St. Kevin. Afternoon arrival in Dublin-top off the day with an optional Irish cabaret evening including dinner, dance, song, and laughter. (B)

Day 17 Dublin

A day in the “Fair City” starts off with an orientation drive through Ireland’s capital and includes statue-lined O’Connell Street, elegant Georgian squares, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The rest of the day is free to enjoy Dublin at leisure. Top the day with an optional dinner evening at the Guinness Storehouse. (B)

Day 18 Dublin – Wrexham, Wales

Take the FERRY across the Irish Sea to Holyhead on the Welsh Isle of Anglesey with its tongue-twisting place names. Enjoy the best of North Wales on a scenic drive through Snowdonia National Park, including spectacular Llanberis Pass, then on to Llangollen, home of an annual national competition for poets and musicians, before arriving in Wrexham. This evening, why not join an optional excursion by barge along the Llangollen Canal? (B/D)

Day 19 Wrexham – Builth Wells – Brecon – Cardiff

A day dedicated to Wales as you head South through the ancient market town of Builth Wells and the Brecon Beacons National Park, land of salmon rivers and the Welsh mountain pony. In Cardiff, an orientation drive takes in Cathays Park with its splendid civic buildings and Cardiff Castle. Tonight’s optional excursion is an evening of Welsh entertainment and dinner. (B)

Day 20 Cardiff – Bath, England – Glastonbury – Widecombe – Plymouth

Across the Severn Bridge to the elegant Georgian city of Bath , famed for its Roman relics. Into the West Country via Glastonbury and its associations with King Arthur, and wild and romantic Dartmoor with a visit to the picture-book village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Upon arrival in Plymouth, hear about Sir Francis Drake and see the Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers embarked in 1620. (B/D)

Day 21 Plymouth. Cornwall Excursion

A day full of West Country sights as you head through Daphne du Maurier’s Cornwall. After viewing St. Michael’s Mount rising boldly out of the sea, take your photos at Land’s End before exploring the popular seaside resort of St. Ives. You may wish to join an optional cruise on Plymouth Sound this evening. (B)

Day 22 Plymouth – Stonehenge – Arundel – Brighton

An interesting day heading into Thomas Hardy’s Wessex and a visit to intriguing, prehistoric STONEHENGE . Explore the stunning visitor centre with its imaginative exhibitions, then admire the magnificence of the monument up close. Stop for photos at historic Arundel, dominated by the Duke of Norfolk’s huge castle, before continuing on to the seaside resort of Brighton for an overnight stay. (B/D)

Day 23 Brighton – Royal Tunbridge Wells – London

A leisurely last day on the road with time this morning for a seafront promenade stroll or to browse along The Lanes, a quaint area of narrow streets renowned for its antique shops. Finally, take the scenic route to Royal Tunbridge Wells and pause for lunch in this picturesque spa town before returning to London about 3 pm. How about celebrating the success of your tour with a night out on the town? (B)

Day 24 London

Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

Trip Inclusions

Included experiences.

• INSIDE VISITS AND SPECIAL FEATURES: Shown in UPPERCASE in the tour description including admission charges where applicable.
• SIGHTSEEING: Visits to Hampton Court Palace Gardens, Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon , Hadrian’s Wall, Jedburgh and Melrose, Edinburgh Castle, tickets for Edinburgh Military Tattoo (departure numbers 0731 through 0821), St. Andrews, Pitlochry, Culloden Moor, Inverness, Strathpeffer, Ullapool, Fort William, Alloway, Giant’s Causeway, Derry, Belleek Pottery, W.B.Yeats’ burial place, Sligo, Galway, Cliffs of Moher, Killarney, Blarney , Waterford, Avoca handweaving mill, Glendalough, Llangollen, Builth Wells, Bath , Glastonbury, Widecombe-in-the-Moor, Plymouth, St. Ives, Stonehenge , Arundel, Brighton, Royal Tunbridge Wells; orientation drives in Glasgow, Dublin, Cardiff; walking tours in Oxford, York .
• SCENIC HIGHLIGHTS: Cotswold Hills, Northumberland National Park, Scottish Lowlands and Highlands, Isle of Skye, Loch Lomond, Northern Ireland’s Antrim Coast, The Burren, Dingle Peninsula, Ring of Kerry and Lakes of Killarney, Snowdonia National Park, Brecon Beacons National Park, Dartmoor National Park, St. Michael’s Mount and Land’s End, Salisbury Plain.
• GUIDES: Local Guide for city sightseeing in Edinburgh ; Host service in London. Professional Tour Director while touring.
• TRANSPORTATION: Private first-class air-conditioned motorcoach. Isle of Skye ferry; round-trip Irish Sea crossings by day ferry; ferry across the Shannon estuary.
• HOTELS: Rooms with private bath or shower, hotel taxes, porterage, tips,and service charges.
• MEALS: Full English breakfast (B); 10 three-course dinners (D) with choice of menus.

Included Meals

• 23 Breakfasts

Superior Hotels

• Hotel Classifications: Superior First Class (SF), First Class (F), Moderate First Class (MF), Superior Tourist (ST), Deluxe (D), Moderate Deluxe (MD), Best Available (BA), National Park (NP)
• London Kensington Close (ST) or Novotel London West (F), Coventry Hinckley Island (F) at Hinckley, Newcastle Jurys Inn (F), Edinburgh Capital (F) or Kings Manor (ST), Strathpeffer Ben Wyvis (ST), Glasgow Pond (F), Belfast Jurys Inn (F), Sligo Southern (F), Ennis Auburn Lodge (ST), Killarney Holiday Inn (F), Tramore Majestic (ST), Dublin Jurys Inn Custom House (F), Wrexham Ramada Plaza (F), Cardiff Novotel (F), Plymouth Jurys Inn (F), Brighton Jurys Inn (F)
• Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
• Prices are for land/cruise only. Flights not included.

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The British Isles in Depth ( 9090 )

23 Day Tour from London to London

The British Isles in Depth

Starting at $6,159

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•  Overview

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•  Itinerary and Meals

 Tour Director

 accommodations,  optional excursions,  private touring.

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The following UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be seen or visited on this vacation:

 Meals

 meals & itinerary.

Full English breakfast daily; 7 three-course dinners with choice of menus

Headsets on tour except for London

 Itinerary

Day 1 arrive in london, england.

Check into your hotel. In the afternoon, there’s time to rest or to start exploring the lively British capital; uniformed hosts are available to help you make the most of your stay.

Day 2 LONDON

What’s your pleasure? Today is devoted to exploring on your own or enjoying our exciting program of optional activities. You may choose to join a Local Guide for an optional morning sightseeing tour of the city’s famous landmarks: the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall’s mounted horseguards and the Prime Minister’s Downing Street residence, Piccadilly Circus, and Buckingham Palace. The highlight is a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral, Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece built between 1675 and 1708. Later, maybe visit Windsor Castle or the Tower of London with its spectacular Crown Jewels. Tonight, we recommend our optional Taste of London excursion with dinner, followed by a guided illumination cruise on the River Thames.

Day 3 LONDON–OXFORD–STRATFORD-UPON-AVON–LEEDS

Meet your Tour Director and travel companions and depart at 8 am for a memorable day of sightseeing, including a walking tour of Oxford, one of the country’s oldest seats of learning; then, skirt the Cotswold Hills to Shakespeare’s Stratford-upon-Avon. Take photos of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and explore the town at your own pace. Overnight in Leeds. Today’s Distance: 249 mi/ 400 km

Day 4 LEEDS–YORK–NEWCASTLE

This morning, head north to York, England’s most complete medieval city. Stand in awe in front of the great structure of York Minster, then follow your Tour Director through a maze of quaint streets, including the narrow Shambles. Stop for the night in Newcastle, once an important hub for the wool trade and coal mining and now a vibrant, modern city. Today’s Distance: 108 mi/ 174 km

Day 5 NEWCASTLE–JEDBURGH, SCOTLAND–EDINBURGH

See a section of Hadrian’s Wall, then motor through wild Northumberland National Park to the Scottish border. Stop for photos at Jedburgh before arriving in Edinburgh. Here, sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town”. In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels. A suggestion for this evening: a traditional Scottish night out with Highland dancers, bagpipers, and, of course, the Ceremony of the Haggis. Today's Distance: 117 mi/188 km

Day 6 EDINBURGH

Your choice today: an optional morning excursion to Rosslyn Chapel, made world-famous by Dan Brown’s Da Vinci Code, and also one of Scotland’s most remarkable buildings. You will have ample time to visit the 15th-century medieval chapel and the visitor centre, and to take photographs of the ruins of Rosslyn Castle. Later, an optional tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia with dinner. For departures August 4, August 11 and August 18, tickets are included for tonight’s performance of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.

Day 7 EDINBURGH–ST. ANDREWS–PITLOCHRY–CULLODEN MOOR–INVERNESS–STRATHPEFFER

A day of memorable sightseeing. Take the elegant Forth Road Bridge to St. Andrews, whose Royal and Ancient Golf Club has given us the rules of golfing, then cross the Firth of Tay and, via Dundee and Perth, head into the Highlands, with a stop in the Victorian mountain resort of Pitlochry. Cross the battlefield of Culloden Moor with its memories of Bonnie Prince Charlie, then via Inverness, head for your Highland destination. Today’s Distance: 221 mi/ 355 km

Day 8 STRATHPEFFER. WEST COAST EXCURSION

More spectacular Scottish scenery: Dornoch Firth, the Kyle of Sutherland, the Falls of Shin, the Mountains of Assynt, and Knockan Crag. Then, follow Strath Oykel for a visit to Ullapool, a remote fishing harbor on Loch Broom, before returning along Loch Glascarnoch. Our recommendation for this afternoon: join the optional Loch Ness Experience, which includes a cruise on the loch, followed by supper. Today’s Distance: 123 mi/ 198 km

Day 9 STRATHPEFFER–FORT WILLIAM–GLASGOW

More heather-clad moors as you drive through the western Highlands all the way to Fort William beneath Ben Nevis. Glen Coe, where the MacDonald Clan was massacred in 1692, and a drive along the “Bonnie Banks” of Loch Lomond are scenic highlights on the way to Glasgow, Scotland’s great cultural city. Today’s Distance: 183 mi/ 295 km

Day 10 GLASGOW–ALLOWAY–BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND

On this morning’s orientation drive through Scotland’s largest city, see the fine 12th-century cathedral, imposing university buildings, and elegant Georgian squares, built by wealthy tobacco barons. Later, stop at Alloway, the birthplace of Robert Burns, before boarding the ferry for the Irish Sea, crossing to Belfast. Today’s Distance: 100 mi/ 160 km

Day 11 BELFAST–GIANT’S CAUSEWAY–DERRY–SLIGO, IRELAND

Take the scenic route along the Antrim Coast to awe-inspiring Giant’s Causeway, then let the province’s story unfold as you head for the city of Derry. Arrive in Sligo, tonight’s destination. Today’s Distance: 203 mi/ 327 km

Day 12 SLIGO–GALWAY–CLIFFS OF MOHER–LIMERICK

Travel south to Galway, a popular seaside destination and a buzzing cosmopolitan district with vibrant shops and a busy café and bar culture. Then, cross the limestone plateau of The Burren to visit the spectacular 668-foot Cliffs of Moher. Tonight, a chance to attend an optional medieval banquet at a historic castle. Today’s Distance: 181 mi/ 291 km

Day 13 LIMERICK–DINGLE PENINSULA–KILLARNEY

Via Adare and Tralee into County Kerry. Breathtaking scenery this afternoon on the Dingle Peninsula, where the 32-mile Slea Head drive affords magnificent vistas of the Atlantic Ocean. Afternoon arrival in Killarney, your destination for the next two nights. Today’s Distance: 154 mi/ 249 km

Day 14 KILLARNEY. RING OF KERRY EXCURSION

At Killorglin, join the road known as the Ring of Kerry for a 100-mile coastal panoramic drive featuring sparkling seascapes, mountains dotted with brightly painted farmhouses, winding lanes bordered with subtropical vegetation, and spectacular views of the Lakes of Killarney. Then, a special optional adventure: take a horse-drawn jaunting car along the national park lakeshore for pictures of Ross Castle. Today’s Distance: 100 mi / 160 km

Day 15 KILLARNEY–BLARNEY–DUNGARVAN–TRAMORE

More scenic beauty as you head into County Cork. Stop in Blarney, famous for its Stone of Eloquence, with time at your leisure to see the castle, and shop for Irish crafts and handmade crystal. After lunch, drive past Cork, the country’s second-largest city. Finally, pass Dungarvan and travel along the Copper Coast to the seaside resort of Tramore. Tonight, maybe join an optional pub tour before dinner at your hotel. Today’s Distance: 131 mi/ 211 km

Day 16 TRAMORE–WATERFORD–KILKENNY–DUBLIN

On your northbound journey pause in Waterford, famous for its exquisite crystal, and visit Kilkenny, one of Ireland’s prettiest towns with medieval cobblestone streets and Old-World charm. Afternoon arrival in Dublin—top off the day with an optional Irish cabaret evening including dinner, dance, song, and laughter. Today’s Distance: 128 mi/ 205 km

Day 17 DUBLIN

A day in the “Fair City” starts off with an orientation drive through Ireland’s capital and includes statue-lined O’Connell Street, elegant Georgian squares, and St. Patrick’s Cathedral. The rest of the day is free to enjoy Dublin at leisure. This evening’s optional dinner excursion is to the famous Guinness Storehouse.

Day 18 DUBLIN–CAERNARFON, WALES–LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND

Take the ferry across the Irish Sea to Holyhead on the Welsh Isle of Anglesey with its tongue-twisting names. Explore North Wales on the way to Caernarfon where the castle saw the investiture of Charles as Prince of Wales, before arriving in Liverpool. Today’s Distance: 130 mi/ 209 km

Day 19 LIVERPOOL–BUILTH WELLS, WALES–BRECON–CARDIFF

A day dedicated to Wales as you head south through the ancient market town of Builth Wells and Brecon Beacons National Park, land of salmon rivers and the Welsh mountain pony. In Cardiff, an orientation drive takes in Cathays Park with its splendid civic buildings and Cardiff Castle. Tonight’s optional excursion is an evening of Welsh entertainment and dinner. Today’s Distance: 184 mi/ 296 km

Day 20 CARDIFF–BATH, ENGLAND–GLASTONBURY–WIDECOMBE–PLYMOUTH

Across the Severn Bridge to the elegant Georgian city of Bath, famed for its Roman relics. Into the West Country via Glastonbury and its legends of King Arthur, and wild and romantic Dartmoor with a visit to the picture-book village of Widecombe-in-the-Moor. Upon arrival in Plymouth, hear about Sir Francis Drake and see the Mayflower Steps, where the Pilgrim Fathers embarked in 1620. Today’s Distance: 198 mi/ 319 km

Day 21 PLYMOUTH. LOOE EXCURSION

Today’s excursion takes you to the pretty fishing village and former smuggler’s port of Looe. Then, follow in the footsteps of Drake, Raleigh, and the Pilgrim Fathers on an optional cruise on Plymouth Sound, one of the world’s greatest natural harbors. Today’s Distance: 45 mi/ 65 km

Day 22 PLYMOUTH–STONEHENGE–LONDON

An interesting day heading into Thomas Hardy’s Wessex and a visit to intriguing, prehistoric Stonehenge. Explore the visitor center with its imaginative exhibitions, then admire the magnificence of the monument up close. Return to London in the early evening. How about celebrating the success of your tour with a night out on the town? Today’s Distance: 215 mi/ 346 km

Day 23 LONDON

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

With COSMOS, there’s no better way to get to know your destination than through the eyes of a Tour Director. We’d like you to meet one of our Tour Directors, who average over a decade of experience and are representative of the type of expert that will be with you on your vacation.

WILL COLLINS

Escorting tours for more than 20 years

“ For more than 20 years now I've had the great pleasure of being a Globus and Cosmos tour guide. Nothing beats the joy of watching people from all walks of life get so excited about seeing an iconic site like the Tower of London or Ireland's Cliffs of Moher for the first time. Being central to this joy is what give us tour guides that great sense of satisfaction and reward from the work that we do and the friends we meet along the way. ”

No matter what you’re into: food, wine, history, art, music or anything else, we give you the freedom to personalize your vacation with optional excursions that speak to your interests.

When you book your excursions with us, you can be assured that every optional excursion that we offer coordinates with the free time that you'll have in your destination, so you'll never have conflicts between included and optional activities. Our team of travel experts carefully selects each optional excursion that we offer to ensure that you receive the highest quality at a great value. Our tried-and-true partners have a finger on the pulse of the city in which they operate so they deliver the very best experiences. We offer experiences you cannot create on your own and because you’re booking with us, we coordinate all your transportation and timing needs.

The following optional excursions are examples only for this vacation. These may or may not be offered, and availability is subject to days of operation and seasonality. Please select a departure date to view optional excursions and pricing for a specific date (due to currency fluctuation, pricing shown is subject to change until purchased). Optional excursions are available for purchase on our MyCosmos site 90 days prior to the tour start date.

A Taste of London

A traditional dining experience followed by a nighttime cruise along the Thames River, viewing some of the capital's most beautiful illuminated sights.

Price Range: $$$$

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is the oldest and largest inhabited castle in the world. It has been the family home of British kings and queens for almost 1,000 years and is today one of the official residences of His Majesty The King.

Price Range: $$$

Morning City Sightseeing

Morning sightseeing with a Local Guide includes all the famous landmarks: the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben beside the River Thames, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall's mounted horseguards and the Prime Minister's Downing Street, Piccadilly Circus, and Buckingham Palace. The highlight is a visit to ST. PAUL'S CATHEDRAL, Sir Christopher Wren's masterpiece built between 1675 and 1708.

Price Range: $$

Scottish Evening

No trip to Scotland is complete without an authentic Scottish evening filled with traditional food, drinks, singers, dancers, bagpipes, and, of course, the unforgettable Ceremony of the Haggis!

Royal Yacht Britannia and Dinner

Discover what life was like on board Her Majesty's floating residence during an exciting visit of the Royal Yacht Britannia, followed by dinner with wine at an excellent local restaurant!

Rosslyn Chapel

Put on your best detective hat and get ready to decipher the cryptic symbols and spellbinding mysteries of 15th-century Rosslyn Chapel, one of Scotland's most enigmatic places.

Price Range: $

Strathpeffer

Loch Ness Experience and Supper

The history, legends, and utter majesty of Scotland's most famous lake are revealed on this discovery featuring Loch Ness Centre, a scenic cruise, and dinner!

Medieval Castle Banquet

Step back in time at an original Irish medieval banquet. Enjoy a 4-course feast with wine, then relax as your medieval hosts dazzle you with unforgettable music and storytelling.

Jaunting Car Ride

A delightful horse-drawn jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park to legendary Ross Castle on the shores of Lough Leane.

Tramore Pub Evening

For local Irish flavor, take a scenic drive to a traditional pub with a local musician ready to entertain you and give you wonderful memories of this beautiful country. Two drinks of your choice are included.

Taylors Irish Cabaret

You won't want to miss this popular outing to the legendary Taylors Irish Cabaret, featuring a delicious dinner, drinks, and outstanding Irish music, dance, and comedy.

Guinness Storehouse Visit and Supper

Discover the history, traditions, and brewing techniques behind one of the world's most popular beer on this fascinating tour, tasting and dinner at Dublin's legendary Guinness Storehouse.

Liverpool City Tour

This private guided tour is an entertaining introduction to Liverpool, featuring the city's glorious maritime past, the cathedral, historic civic buildings, and sites made famous by the Beatles!

Welsh Evening

Experience Welsh culture at its finest during this memorable excursion featuring a dinner of local specialties, wine, and spirited folkloric entertainment.

Plymouth Harbor Cruise

Follow in the footsteps of Sir Francis Drake, Sir Walter Raleigh, and the Pilgrim Fathers on this narrated cruise on Plymouth Sound, one of the world's great natural harbors.

Private Touring: Cosmos European Private Touring enables you to experience all of the attractions, sights and highlights of your selected Cosmos tour as a private experience - delivered just for you and your traveling party. With Private Touring, you'll have your own dedicated Tour Director, your own private transportation and driver, and your own professional local guides. All with greater flexibility in pace and your experience. For your selected tour, there will be additional per-person cost for the size of your party - from 1 to 24. This additional supplement is reduced with each traveler you add to your party. Here's a sample of the additional cost:

Contact Cosmos or your preferred travel agent for pricing for your specific party size as well as any other information on Cosmos Private Touring.

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