UK Tour attraction, Big Ben, London, England

Tours of England, Ireland & Scotland 2025

Tours starting in Edinburgh; London Scotland Ireland tours – and various other types of Britain and Ireland tours. Your journey starts here.

We are still Ireland's best-reviewed tour operator, with 97.3% five-star reviews.

Our guests rated us
5.0★★★★★
Based on 1933 guest reviews

Compare our England and Ireland tour packages

Your Britain and Ireland vacation starts here. Tours starting in London, Edinburgh or Dublin. Use this page to find the Britain and Ireland tours and dates that work best for you. If you're not sure where to start, our small and friendly team is here to help, so please do just get in touch.

Discovery Tours Collection
A tour attraction in Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

9-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

  • 9 days
  • 17 attractions
  • Max. 26 ppl

Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.

New for 2025
From €2,490
Discovery Tours Collection
A tour attraction in Edinburgh, Scotland, UK

14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour

  • 14 days
  • 25 attractions
  • Max. 26 ppl

Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.

Rated 4.97 out of 5
From €3,990
Luxury Tours Collection
A UK tour attration, a castle in Scotland, Great Britain

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

  • 13 days
  • 24 attractions
  • Max. 8 ppl

Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.

(5)
From €5,690
Discovery Tours Collection
The London Eye, seen on our Tours of England and Ireland

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

  • 18 days
  • 34 attractions
  • Max. 26 ppl

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.

(5)
From €4,590
Discovery Tours Collection
Discover Northern Ireland Tour

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

  • 6 days
  • 8 attractions
  • Max. 26 ppl

Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.

Rated 5 out of 5
From €1,090
Failte Ireland
Tourism Ireland
Discover Ireland
Ireland's Ancient East
Wild Atlantic Way

UK and Ireland Tour Dates

Use this section to check availability and prices for the dates that suit you best. These are all our current tour dates which include London, England and Scotland. To view all our tour dates and prices click here...

England, Ireland and Scotland Tours

England, Ireland and Scotland Tours

Show Tours Departing:
Show only these tours
Apply changes

Found matching tour dates with availability

Image from the Discover Britain and Ireland Tour
23 Apr - 10 May 2025

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

18 days / 17 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4590
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
26 Apr - 09 May 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 1 space!

€3990
Image from the Discover Northern Ireland Tour
30 Apr - 05 May 2025

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

6 days / 5 nights • Max 26 ppl

€1090
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
03 - 16 May 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 1 space!

€4190
Image from the 9-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
04 - 12 May 2025

9-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

9 days / 8 nights • Max 26 ppl

€2490
Image from the Discover Britain and Ireland Tour
07 - 24 May 2025

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

18 days / 17 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4690
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
10 - 23 May 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 1 space!

€4190
Image from the Discover Britain and Ireland Tour
14 - 31 May 2025

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

18 days / 17 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 8 spaces!

€4690
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
17 - 30 May 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 8 spaces!

€4290
Image from the 9-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
18 - 26 May 2025

9-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

9 days / 8 nights • Max 26 ppl

€2490
Image from the Discover Northern Ireland Tour
21 - 26 May 2025

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

6 days / 5 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 4 spaces!

€1190
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
24 May - 06 Jun 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4290
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
31 May - 13 Jun 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4390
Image from the 9-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
01 - 09 Jun 2025

9-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

9 days / 8 nights • Max 26 ppl

€2590
Image from the Discover Britain and Ireland Tour
04 - 21 Jun 2025

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

18 days / 17 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4990
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
07 - 20 Jun 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4490
Image from the Discover Northern Ireland Tour
11 - 16 Jun 2025

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

6 days / 5 nights • Max 26 ppl

€1190
Image from the Discover Britain and Ireland Tour
11 - 28 Jun 2025

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

18 days / 17 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4990
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
14 - 27 Jun 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4490
Image from the 9-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
15 - 23 Jun 2025

9-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

9 days / 8 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 6 spaces!

€2590
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
Save €300
21 Jun - 04 Jul 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 6 spaces!

€4190 €4490
Image from the Ancient Ireland and Scotland Tour
25 Jun - 07 Jul 2025

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

13 days / 12 nights • Max 8 ppl

€5890
Image from the Discover Britain and Ireland Tour
Save €300
25 Jun - 12 Jul 2025

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

18 days / 17 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4690 €4990
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
Save €300
28 Jun - 11 Jul 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 3 spaces!

€4190 €4490
Image from the Discover Northern Ireland Tour
Save €100
02 - 07 Jul 2025

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

6 days / 5 nights • Max 26 ppl

€1090 €1190
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
05 - 18 Jul 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4490
Image from the 9-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
06 - 14 Jul 2025

9-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

9 days / 8 nights • Max 26 ppl

€2690
Image from the Ancient Ireland and Scotland Tour
09 - 21 Jul 2025

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

13 days / 12 nights • Max 8 ppl

Final 4 spaces!

€5890
Image from the Discover Britain and Ireland Tour
09 - 26 Jul 2025

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

18 days / 17 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4990
Image from the Discover Northern Ireland Tour
16 - 21 Jul 2025

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

6 days / 5 nights • Max 26 ppl

€1190
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
19 Jul - 01 Aug 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4490
Image from the 9-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
20 - 28 Jul 2025

9-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

9 days / 8 nights • Max 26 ppl

€2690
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
02 - 15 Aug 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4490
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
09 - 22 Aug 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 9 spaces!

€4590
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
16 - 29 Aug 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4590
Image from the Ancient Ireland and Scotland Tour
20 Aug - 01 Sep 2025

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

13 days / 12 nights • Max 8 ppl

€5890
Image from the Discover Britain and Ireland Tour
Save €300
20 Aug - 06 Sep 2025

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

18 days / 17 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 1 space!

€4690 €4990
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
Save €300
23 Aug - 05 Sep 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 3 spaces!

€4190 €4490
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
Save €300
30 Aug - 12 Sep 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

Final 5 spaces!

€4190 €4490
Image from the Ancient Ireland and Scotland Tour
03 - 15 Sep 2025

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

13 days / 12 nights • Max 8 ppl

Final 4 spaces!

€5890
Image from the Discover Northern Ireland Tour
03 - 08 Sep 2025

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

6 days / 5 nights • Max 26 ppl

€1190
Image from the Discover Britain and Ireland Tour
03 - 20 Sep 2025

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

18 days / 17 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4990
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
06 - 19 Sep 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4490
Image from the 9-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
07 - 15 Sep 2025

9-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

9 days / 8 nights • Max 26 ppl

€2690
Image from the Discover Britain and Ireland Tour
10 - 27 Sep 2025

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

18 days / 17 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4990
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
13 - 26 Sep 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4490
Image from the Ancient Ireland and Scotland Tour
17 - 29 Sep 2025

Ancient Ireland & Scotland Tour

13 days / 12 nights • Max 8 ppl

Final 5 spaces!

€5890
Image from the Discover Northern Ireland Tour
17 - 22 Sep 2025

Discover Northern Ireland Tour

6 days / 5 nights • Max 26 ppl

€1190
Image from the Discover Britain and Ireland Tour
17 Sep - 04 Oct 2025

Discover Britain & Ireland Tour

18 days / 17 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4790
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
20 Sep - 03 Oct 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4490
Image from the 9-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
21 - 29 Sep 2025

9-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

9 days / 8 nights • Max 26 ppl

€2690
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
27 Sep - 10 Oct 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4290
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
04 - 17 Oct 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4290
Image from the 9-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
05 - 13 Oct 2025

9-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

9 days / 8 nights • Max 26 ppl

€2590
Image from the 14-Day Discover Scotland and Ireland Tour
11 - 24 Oct 2025

14-Day Discover Scotland & Ireland Tour

14 days / 13 nights • Max 26 ppl

€4290

England

An island nation that once ruled the globe. It was said that the sun never set on the British Empire, such was its scale and scope. England's place in the world may be different today, but its history and its heritage remain undimmed, attracting over 30 million tourists each year. They come in search of the iconic idiosyncrasies that make England unlike any other place on earth. The royal family, the Houses of Parliament, Stone Henge, Shakespeare, black cabs, fish and chips, red phone boxes. Welcome to England.

England Travelguide
England Tour attractions in London, seen on a tour of England and Ireland

Ireland

A proud island nation with five million inhabitants, one hundred thousand welcomes and a song for every occasion. If this is your first time in Ireland, welcome home. Although geographically small, Ireland offers a rich and varied culture to all who visit her shores. Famous for its pubs, and for the Guinness and the folk music on offer within them, Ireland is known worldwide for the warm welcome it offers its guests. It also offers a history and a landscape that are hard to capture in word, image or song. Of course, that doesn't stop this most artistic and literary of places from trying.

Ireland Travelguide
England and Ireland Tour guests enjoying a trad session in Ireland

Scotland

Scotland — a place where landscape, culture and history are woven inseparably into one rich fabric. And few countries on earth place greater significance on fabric than Scotland, where the pattern of the tartan you wear can be associated with different clans, families, regions, institutions, and even certain events and individuals. The millions of visitors who flock to Scotland each year are drawn to the highlands and islands, the lochs and the legends. Don't leave without visiting one of the many Scotch whisky distilleries that produce this proud nation's most famous export.

Scotland Travelguide
A castle seen on a tour of Britain visiting Scotland

Top Britain & Ireland Tour Attractions

London City

London City

Explore the famous city's unmistakable skyline and awe-inspiring attractions. Read more...

Stonehenge

Stonehenge

Unearth mystical power and wonder of one of ancient England's greatest feats. Read more...

The Roman Baths

The Roman Baths

Step into the timeless luxury and stunning architecture of the Roman Baths. Read more...

Bath City

Bath City

Explore the stunning architecture and natural beauty of the city of Bath. Read more...

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway

Embark on a train journey through time and beauty. Read more...

Shakespeare's Birthplace

Shakespeare's Birthplace

Immerse yourself in the birthplace of the most treasured son of literature. Read more...

Chatsworth House

Chatsworth House

Unveiling grandeur and timeless elegance in a stunning setting. Read more...

York Minster

York Minster

Uncover centuries of history and tales of heavenly grandeur. Read more...

Jedburgh Abbey

Jedburgh Abbey

Discover this ancient hub of religion and culture on the Scottish Borders. Read more...

Edinburgh City, shopping on Victoria Street

Edinburgh City

Edinburgh is Scotland's modern-day cultural hub and its capital city. Read more...

Holyrood Palace, Edinburgh, as seen on our Ireland and Scotland Tours

Holyrood Palace

This Palace is the official residence of the British Royal Family. Read more...

Edinburgh Castle under blue skies

Edinburgh Castle

Scotland's number 1 tourist attraction. Built during the 12th century. Read more...

Glasgow City Centre

Glasgow City

Scotland's most populous city, its people have their own cultural identity. Read more...

Glasgow Cathedral, as seen on our tours of Scotland

Glasgow Cathedral

Founded by Glasgow's patron Saint Mungo and Scotland's oldest cathedral. Read more...

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle

Stirling Castle sits atop Castle Hill in the Southeast of the town of Stirling. Read more...

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond

Take a journey through a blend of lush forest and open ground. Read more...

Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond Cruise

Sail along the tranquillity Britain's largest inland stretch of water. Read more...

Ferry to Belfast Port

Ferry to Belfast Port

Travel from Cairnryan (Scotland) to Belfast (Northern Ireland) via ferry. Read more...

An old redbrick building in Belfast City

Belfast City

Northern Ireland's capital city and the birthplace of the Titanic. Read more...

Murals in Belfast, Northern Ireland

Belfast City Tour

See how Belfast grew from its past political & religious divisions. Read more...

The Giants Causeway, pictured on a tour of Northern Ireland

The Giant's Causeway

40,000 basalt columns make up this UNESCO World Heritage site. Read more...

The idyllic Antrim Coast in Northern Ireland

The Antrim Coast

Endless Coastal views and stunning scenery, your camera is essential. Read more...

Derry City

Londonderry City

Also known as Derry City. Famous for its intact 17th century walls. Read more...

Drumcliffe Cemetery in county Sligo Ireland.

Drumcliffe

A cemetery in Co. Sligo. Drumcliffe is the final resting place of W.B. Yeats. Read more...

Galway Bay

Galway City

This harbour City is found on Ireland's rugged West Coast. Read more...

Kylemore Abbey in Connemara on a trip to Ireland

Kylemore Abbey

One of Ireland's most romantic and aesthetically pleasing buildings. Read more...

The Burren Irish Landscape, part of our Ireland vacations

The Burren

The Burren takes its name from the Gaelic for "rocky land" or "great rock". Read more...

Cliffs of Moher Irish tours attraction

Cliffs of Moher

The views will not disappoint at this most popular tourist attraction. Read more...

Caherdaniel on the Ring of Kerry

Ring Of Kerry

Embrace the beauty around every corner of this famous driving route. Read more...

Killarney Lakes

Killarney Lakes

Found on the majestic lands of Killarney National Park in County Kerry. Read more...

Blarney Castle in Ireland during one of our trips to Ireland

Blarney Castle

This 600-year-old Irish castle is famed for its legendary kissing stone. Read more...

Blarney woollen Mills

Blarney Woollen Mills

Take a step back into the history of Irish industry and craftmenship . Read more...

Rock of Cashel in County Tipperary

The Rock of Cashel

A remarkably well-preserved fortress, that has stood for a millennium. Read more...

The National Concert Hall

Dublin City

Ireland's capital city, jam-packed with activities and attractions. Read more...

Epic, The Irish Emigration Museum as seen on a vacation in Ireland

EPIC: Emigration Museum

Trace the fascinating history of Irish emigration through the ages. Read more...

Christchurch Cathedral in Dublin, as seen on our Ireland vacations

Christ Church

1000-year-old home to a rare 14th century copy of the Magna Carta. Read more...

Guinness Storehouse in Dublin Ireland, part of our all inclusive trips to Ireland

Guinness Storehouse

Learn all about the famous drink whose heritage is a story of Ireland itself. Read more...

EnglandScotland

Information for tourists in England

England boasts a long and fascinating history, and this is widely reflected in its tourist attractions, from ancient Stonehenge to the Tower of London. There are countless historical sites and landmarks to explore. Whether they're guided or self-drive, tours of England usually start in London, where you will see lots of the country's heritage and pageantry in full colour. Before heading north, most tours will first head west to Salisbury, where you will find Stonehenge.

Landscape and cities

England is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves to get outdoors. Even if the weather is not the UK's most alluring feature! From the rolling hills of the The Cotswolds and the rugged The Lake District to the scenic coastlines and national parks, England offers a wide range of natural beauty.

For those who prefer to be amongst the people, England is very densely populated and has many burgeoning cities, each with their own culture and character. London, the capital, is known for its iconic landmarks like Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the London Eye. Other notable cities include Manchester, birthplace of the industrial-revolution; Liverpool, home of The Beatles; Stratford, Shakespeare's Birthplace ; and Oxford, home to the oldest and perhaps the most prestigious university in the world.

Picturesque Villages

Despite having many thriving cities, England is perhaps even better known for its quaint country villages. A visit to England is not complete until you have explored at least one of its charming villages with thatched cottages, medieval churches, and traditional country pubs.

Culture and museums

England is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous museums, galleries, theatres, and live music venues. Many of England's museums, such as the The British Museum and the Tate Modern, offer free admission and house impressive collections of art, history, and science.

Eating and drinking

England's culinary scene is diverse, influenced by its multicultural population. In addition to traditional British dishes, you'll find excellent Indian, Italian, and other international cuisines. Don't go home without trying the fish'n'chips and perhaps a spicy Vindaloo curry! During the daytime, make time for afternoon tea in one of the many traditional English tearooms you will find in most English towns. During the evening, find a cosy English pub and enjoy a pint with the locals.

Getting around

England has an extensive public transport network, including buses, trains, and the London Underground, making it relatively easy to get around. In England, Ireland and Scotland, people drive on the left side of the road. If this is your first time visiting this part of the world, this might take some getting used to, so maybe leave the driving to our experienced driver-guides.

Practical considerations

The currency is the British Pound Sterling (£). It's a good idea to have some cash on hand, though Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

England uses Type G electrical plugs, so you may need an adapter for your electronic devices if you are travelling from North America, Australia or Europe.

The weather can be unpredictable, with a possibility of rain even in summer. Packing layers and a waterproof jacket is advisable.

Information for tourists in Scotland

Like England to the south, Scotland has a deep-rooted history, from ancient castles and battlefields to traditional Highland games and Celtic music. And, perhaps even more than its southern neighbour, Scotland is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, including the rugged Highlands, serene lochs (lakes), and beautiful islands. For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Scotland offers numerous activities, from hiking and mountain biking in the Highlands to golfing on world-renowned courses like St. Andrews. For wildlife enthusiasts, Scotland is a great place to connect with nature, with opportunities to see red deer, golden eagles, otters and dolphins.

Vibrant cities

Edinburgh City, the capital, is famous for its historic and cultural attractions, including the Edinburgh Castle and The Royal Mile. Glasgow City is known for its vibrant arts scene, shopping, and architecture.

Whisky Distilleries

Scotland is the birthplace of Scotch whisky. The distilleries here are celebrated worldwide for producing a spirit that somehow captures the essence of this proud nation. Each distillery you visit offers a unique glimpse into the meticulous art of whisky making, from malting and mashing to fermentation and ageing in oak barrels. The whisky regions — Speyside, Scottish Highlands, Lowlands, Islay, and Campbeltown — each impart distinctive flavours, from peaty smokiness to light floral notes. Tours of these distilleries usually include tastings, inviting visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and terroir that make Scotch whisky a global icon. Experiencing these distilleries is a journey through Scotland's heritage, landscape, and dedication to excellence.

Loch Ness

Loch Ness is one of Scotland's most famous and enigmatic attractions, known worldwide for the legendary Loch Ness Monster, affectionately known as Nessie. It's located in the Scottish Highlands, southwest of Inverness, and is part of the Great Glen, a geological fault line that cuts across Scotland. Loch Ness is the largest body of freshwater by volume in the UK, thanks to its great depth. It is about 23 miles (37 kilometres) long and up to 788 feet (240 meters) deep at its deepest point, making it the second-deepest loch in Scotland after Loch Morar. Adding to the mystery, its waters are famously dark due to a high concentration of peat particles.

Scottish cuisine

Scottish cuisine is characterized by its use of local, hearty ingredients that reflect the country's rich natural larder, from the rugged Highlands to its vast coastline. Central to Scottish food is the iconic haggis, a savoury pudding made from sheep's offal mixed with oats, onions, and spices, traditionally accompanied by neeps (turnips) and tatties (potatoes). Seafood is another cornerstone, with salmon, trout, and haddock enjoyed fresh, smoked, or as part of dishes like Cullen Skink, a creamy fish soup. Scotland's bakeries offer unique treats, such as shortbread, a buttery biscuit, and the Dundee cake, rich with dried fruits and almonds. The country's culinary scene has evolved to include modern interpretations of traditional dishes, showcasing Scotland's quality produce in innovative ways. From Michelin-starred restaurants in Edinburgh City and Glasgow City to cosy pubs in rural areas, Scotland offers a rich dining experience that melds tradition with contemporary flair, always with a warm welcome.

Traditional Gaelic culture

Tourists in Scotland today encounter a culture that seamlessly blends historical traditions with modernity. While the iconic sound of bagpipes and the sight of kilts are common at tourist attractions and ceremonial events, daily Scottish life is more nuanced. Scottish Gaelic, though an integral part of Scotland's heritage, is spoken primarily in the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Visitors are more likely to hear heavily accented English or Scots dialects in most places. Traditional music remains a vibrant part of Scotland's cultural landscape, often heard in pubs and at music festivals across the country. Highland games and folk festivals offer tourists a chance to see traditional sports and dances, but these events are seasonal highlights rather than everyday occurrences. Scotland's culture, as experienced by tourists, combines these historic elements with the contemporary, offering a rich tapestry that goes beyond the romanticized images into the fabric of Scottish life and identity.

Practical considerations

Like England, Scotland uses the British Pound Sterling (£), though Scotland issues its own banknotes, which are accepted throughout the UK.

Scotland uses Type G electrical plugs, so you may need an adapter for your electronic devices if you are travelling from North America, Australia or Europe.

Similar to England, Scottish weather can be unpredictable, with possible rain and wind, especially in the Highlands. Layered clothing and a waterproof coat are advisable all year round.

Britain and Ireland Tours Q&A

  • Why do Britain and Ireland tours start in London?

    Britain and Ireland tours typically start in London, primarily due to its status as a major transportation hub. London boasts six international airports, with Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted being the most prominent. Compared with other cities in Britain and Ireland, these airports offer extensive flight options — connecting London to numerous North American airports and other global destinations.

  • Can you do England, Scotland and Ireland in one trip?

    You can combine England, Scotland, and Ireland into a single trip. The main factors to consider include the duration of your journey, the key attractions you wish to visit, and whether you prefer a private or shared-group tour experience.

  • How many days do you need to see England?

    The duration of your visit to England will depend on your travel preferences, interests, and the specific places you wish to explore. For a comprehensive tour of England's major attractions, landmarks, and cities, it's best to aim for between 6 and 9 days. This timeframe allows for visits to iconic cities such as London, Oxford, Cambridge, Bath, and Stratford-upon-Avon, as well as popular attractions like Buckingham Palace, Stonehenge, and the Lake District.

  • What is the best time to visit England, Scotland and Ireland?

    In England, Ireland, and Scotland, it's possible to have rain at any time of the year, but you're more likely to experience clear skies and warmer weather from late spring to early autumn. The summer holidays are from the beginning of June to the end of August, so if you prefer a quieter trip, you may find May or September to be the best months to travel.

  • Can you do London Scotland and Ireland in one week?

    Visiting London, Scotland, and Ireland in 7 days or less is possible, but it would be rushed. Each destination has a lot to offer in terms of history, culture, and attractions, so it's best to set aside more time if possible. A week would only allow for brief visits to selected highlights of each location, leaving little time for deeper exploration or relaxation. If you're short on time, it might be worth removing one of either London, Scotland, or Ireland from your tour.

  • How much is a trip to England, Scotland and Ireland?

    For a return flight from the USA to London, England you can expect to pay between €200 and €1000. The price of a tour of England, Scotland, and Ireland ranges from between €1500 to €5000. Tour prices will depend on a number of factors, including the time of the year, the length of the tour, accommodation preferences, and travel style. If you were to find a median price on your return flights and on your England, Scotland and Ireland tour price, the total would come in at around €3850 ($4,151).

  • How to travel between England, Scotland, and Ireland: flight, ferry, or train?

    It is possible to travel through England, Ireland and Scotland using a combination of flights, ferries, and trains. Each mode of transportation offers its advantages regarding speed, cost, and experience, so the choice depends on your preferences, budget, and itinerary. For tours of Britain and Ireland, the typical mode of transport is a coach and ferry combination. The most popular ferry route is Cairnryan in Scotland to Belfast in Northern Ireland.

  • How to pack for weather in England, Scotland, and Ireland?
    • Layer Up:

      Pack clothes like t-shirts, long sleeves, and sweaters that you can mix and match depending on the weather. A waterproof jacket is essential.

    • Be Ready for Rain:

      A good rule of thumb is to always anticipate a light shower. Bring along a durable waterproof jacket, pants, and footwear (boots or shoes are both suitable).

    • Stay Warm:

      Pack for cooler evenings, especially in Scotland and Ireland. Think fleece jackets, wool sweaters, and even thermal leggings for extra cosiness.

    • Comfort over Style:

      You'll likely do a lot of walking, so pack comfy, sturdy shoes that can handle city walks and countryside strolls.

    • Choose your Accessories:

      Hats, gloves, scarves, and sunglasses are always handy against the British and Irish wind, rain, and sunshine!

    • Umbrella Optional:

      An umbrella can be handy for light rain, but wind can make them tricky to use. Consider a compact, windproof one for added convenience.

    • Quick-Drying Clothes:

      Choose clothes that dry quickly in case you're caught in a downpour. Bulky items take up space, so pack light and versatile pieces.

    • Weather Check:

      Before your trip, check the forecast for Britain and Ireland. This will help you fine-tune your packing list.