Exploring Britain & Ireland featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Exploring Britain & Ireland featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Exploring Britain & Ireland featuring the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
15 Days Starting in Edinburgh, United Kingdom and ending in Dublin, Ireland
Visiting: Edinburgh, York, London, Cardiff, Tramore, Killarney, Dublin
Tour operator:
Tour code:
16049
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Britain and Ireland, featuring the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. This tour invites you to explore the rich history and vibrant cultures of these enchanting lands. Begin in Scotland's capital, Edinburgh, where you'll experience the city's medieval charm and enjoy a whisky-inspired dinner. Travel through the picturesque Scottish Borders and visit a sustainable family farm. Discover York's Gothic cathedral and London's iconic landmarks, including a traditional afternoon tea. In Wales, delve into Cardiff's history and the fascinating Royal Mint. Cross the Irish Sea to Ireland, where you'll kiss the Blarney Stone and marvel at the breathtaking Ring of Kerry. Conclude your adventure in Dublin with an evening of traditional Irish music and dance. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, ensuring a memorable experience at every turn.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Overnight Flight
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket Hotel
An overnight flight transports you to stunning landscapes, lively cities and stirring history.
Day 2 : Edinburgh, Scotland
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrive in Edinburgh, the historic capital of Scotland, where rocky hills tower in the distance and the shadows of history can be seen around every corner. With no planned activities today, settle in to discover Scotland's capital and see how medieval crossroads blend seamlessly with a vibrant modern energy. This evening, delve into Scottish culture with a whisky-inspired dinner highlighting the flavors of Scotland and meet your fellow travelers.
Day 3 : Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: DoubleTree by Hilton York
Today get acquainted with Scotland’s regal capital on a locally guided city tour exploring both the Old and New Towns. Explore the Royal Mile on foot and walk up the hill to Edinburgh Castle, home of the Scottish Crown Jewels. This afternoon is yours to further explore independently. Later this evening, take your seat at the spectacular, world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of Scotland's greatest events.
Day 4 : Edinburgh - Scottish Borders - Hexham, England - York
Location: Edinburgh
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Depart Edinburgh, traveling through the picturesque countryside of Northumberland by motor coach. Visit a family farm situated in the heart of the Scottish Borders, where sustainability and innovation are core to their business. Continue to Hexham Abbey, one of the earliest seats of Christianity in England. Later in York, with its medieval city walls and snickelways, dinner is at a local pub.
Day 5 : York
Location: York
Accommodation Name: Canopy by Hilton London City
Take in York’s rich and storied history while joining your Tour Manager on a leisurely orientation walking tour. Explore the quaint, narrow streets of the ‘Shambles’ that appear today almost as they did during the Middle Ages. At the heart of the city is its impressive Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. Venture inside and stand in awe of the seemingly endless sea of stained-glass windows. Enjoy the rest of the afternoon and evening at leisure.
Day 6 : York - London
Location: London
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Board a high-speed train to London. Upon arriving in England’s bustling capital, enjoy a traditional afternoon tea. Afterward, join a local expert for a walking tour of the city. At Westminster, see the exteriors of the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben, and continue on to see the exterior of Buckingham Palace, the London home to Britain’s royalty since 1837. After checking into your hotel, the evening is yours to explore the vibrancy of London’s nightlife.
Day 7 : London
Location: London
Accommodation Name: Clayton Hotel
Enjoy a day to explore London at your leisure. You may choose to take an optional excursion to Hampton Court Palace, home of the Tudor dynasty and England’s most notorious king, Henry VIII. Explore fascinating tales from history in this regal setting that’s also recognizable as a key filming location in Bridgerton, the popular Regency era drama.
Day 8 : London - Bath - Cardiff, Wales
Location: Cardiff
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Travel to Bath, the elegant Georgian town, to visit the Roman Bath Museum’s 2,000-year-old elaborate spas. Stroll through Bath’s cobblestone streets and soak in its old-world atmosphere. Your day ends in the Welsh capital of Cardiff.
Day 9 : Cardiff
Location: Cardiff
Accommodation Name: Granville Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Join a local expert on a leisurely-paced walking tour of Cardiff. Learn about the city’s deep ties to the coal industry, its connection to ancient Rome, and its famous Victorian shopping arcades. Tour Cardiff’s historic castle, an impressive structure that was once a Roman fort, a Norman castle, and an extraordinary Victorian Gothic fantasy palace. This afternoon, visit The Royal Mint to discover its rich history and witness the stringent processes that creating a coin entails. Tonight, dive into the rich cultural heritage of Wales when you join local artists for an evening of Welsh music, poetry and cuisine.
Day 10 : Cardiff - Tramore, Ireland
Location: Tramore
Accommodation Name: Killarney Oaks Hotel
Take in the beautiful Welsh countryside en route to the coastal village of Pembroke. There, board the ferry for Ireland, crossing the Irish Sea. Upon arrival in Rosslare, travel to Tramore in County Waterford, your home for the evening.
Day 11 : Tramore - Blarney - Killarney
Location: Killarney
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
This morning, it’s your choice! Tour the House of Waterford Crystal factory featuring a fascinating visitor’s center and a retail store housing the largest collection of Waterford Crystal in the world -OR- enjoy a leisurely-paced walking tour of Ireland’s oldest city and discover its rich Viking, Norman and Cromwellian history. Later, travel to historic Blarney Castle. Make your way to the top of the castle, lie back and kiss the famous Blarney Stone. Legend has it that if you do, you will be blessed with the "gift of eloquence." This evening, it’s Diner’s Choice... choose your included dinner from a “menu” of Killarney’s great restaurants.
Day 12 : Killarney - Ring Of Kerry - Killarney
Location: Killarney
Accommodation Name: Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge
This morning, explore Killarney National Park on a traditional jaunting car ride.* Then, travel along the glorious Ring of Kerry where you’ll find some of Ireland’s most magical scenery. Marvel at the vistas created by windswept cliffs, rugged mountains, lakes and picturesque villages. Enjoy an evening in Killarney at your leisure.
Day 13 : Killarney - Rock Of Cashel - Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Venture through the “Golden Vale” en route to the awe-inspiring Rock of Cashel. Take in its imposing facade and visit the spot where St. Patrick preached. Continue on to vibrant Dublin, Ireland’s cosmopolitan capital.
Day 14 : Dublin
Location: Dublin
Accommodation Name: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Today, it’s your choice! Choose to ride with a local guide to see St. Patrick’s Cathedral, O’Connell Street, the General Post Office, and the historic Phoenix Park -OR- choose a walking tour of the city’s historic center, exploring St. Stephen’s Green, Grafton Street, and the River Liffey. Either way, what follows is an afternoon to discover Dublin’s charms on your own. Tonight, experience Ireland's lively music and dynamic dancing during a fun-filled evening of Irish entertainment.
Day 15 : Dublin - Tour Ends
Location: Dublin
Depart today with many fond memories of lovely Britain and Ireland.
What's Included
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Whisky-Inspired Dinner
Delve into Scottish culture with a whisky-inspired dinner highlighting the flavors of Scotland.
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Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo
Take your seat at the spectacular, world-famous Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, one of Scotland's greatest events.
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High-Speed Train to London
Travel like a local on a high-speed train to London and be immersed in the capital's energy.
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Traditional Afternoon Tea
Experience a traditional afternoon tea in London.
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Evening of Welsh Music, Poetry, and Cuisine
Explore Wales’ rich cultural heritage at an evening of Welsh music, poetry, and cuisine.
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Evening of Irish Song and Dance
Feel Ireland's spirit during an evening of traditional Irish song and dance in Dublin.
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Visit to The Royal Mint
Explore how money and history intertwine at The Royal Mint.
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Visit to Roman Bath Museum
Explore the Roman Bath Museum's 2,000-year-old elaborate spas.
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Visit to York Minster
Visit York’s incredible Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe.
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Ring of Kerry Experience
Experience the Ring of Kerry, one of the world’s great coastal roads.
What's Not Included
Optional Excursion to Hampton Court PalaceAn optional excursion to Hampton Court Palace is available, which includes transportation and requires a minimum of 15 passengers to operate.
Experiences
Get to know a local family on their innovative 500-acre farm in the Scottish Borders.Travel like a local on a high-speed train to London and be immersed in the capital's energy.Feel Ireland's spirit during an evening of traditional Irish song and dance in Dublin.
Options
London: Hampton Court Palace Mingle with the monarchs as you discover the wonders of the majestic Hampton Court. Chat with Henry VIII and other royals from the Tudor family at this living museum. Listen as they unfurl captivating stories while you explore one of Britain’s most important historic buildings. Marvel at Henry VIII's kitchens and the Great Hall. Delve into the world-famous yew tree maze which consists of over half a mile of winding paths. Be transported through five hundred years of royal history during your incredible visit. Duration approximately 6 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 15 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.
Culinaries
Delve into Scottish culture with a whisky-inspired dinner.Experience a traditional afternoon tea in London.Explore Wales’ rich cultural heritage at an evening of Welsh music, poetry and cuisine.
Must See
Explore the Roman Bath Museum's 2,000-year-old elaborate spas.Visit York’s incredible Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe.Explore how money and history intertwine at The Royal Mint.Experience the Ring of Kerry, one of the world’s great coastal roads.
Choice Highlights
Edinburgh Edinburgh is the capital and second most populous city in Scotland. Edinburgh has been recognized as the capital of Scotland since the 15th century. The city's various historical and cultural attractions, as well as the appeal to the tourist market, makes Edinburgh the most popular tourist destination in the UK after London, attracting over 1 million overseas visitors each year.
Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Since 1950 the iconic Edinburgh Military Tattoo has dazzled millions of spectators with performances from musicians, pipers, drummers, singers and dancers. This epic show, unique every year, takes place at the haunting Edinburgh Castle illuminated under the open sky. In the past, the show’s themes have paid tribute to nature, Queen Elizabeth II’s 90th birthday, and Scotland's homecoming, to name a few. This international festival comes alive with performers from a multitude of countries and audience members from around the world. Military pageantry and cultural celebrations, culminating with a spectacular fireworks display, set the stage for an amazing evening.
York The historic walled city of York in North Yorkshire is located in the northern part of England. Today York is still encircled by its ancient medieval walls. York was founded by the Romans in A.D. 71 and is considered to be one of the great cities of the medieval world.
High-Speed Train
London A world in a city is a common way to describe the capital of England and its 9 million inhabitants. A cultural melting pot of over 230 nationalities, London is the financial, political and cultural capital of the UK and has a history dating before the Romans in A.D. 43.
Afternoon Tea
Bath Bath is a city in Somerset, southwest England located 97 miles west of London. The city is known for the Roman baths located here that the early Romans built. In the Georgian era the city became a popular spa town, and today many tourists come to view the Roman baths. In addition to the Roman baths and hot springs, Bath is also known for its Georgian architecture.
Wales Wales is a country that is part of the United Kingdom and the island of Great Britain. It is bordered by England to the east, the Irish Sea to the north and west, and the Bristol Channel to the south. Wales is populated by over 3 million people; its capital city being Cardiff. Wales uses the pound sterling as their currency.
Cardiff Castle
The Royal Mint
Welsh Evening
Waterford Waterford is Ireland's oldest city with a history that dates back to Viking times. This busy port city on a tidal reach of the River Suir is known as the home of the famous Waterford crystal.
House of Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre or Walking Tour of Waterford City While in Waterford you have the choice between two activities. First, you can choose to visit Waterford Crystal’s impressive new factory and see first-hand the centuries-old tradition of Irish crystal making. Feel the heat of the furnace and marvel at the skills of the craftsmen on a guided tour of the facility. After the tour, perhaps you’ll indulge your passion for the world’s most famous crystal in the factory’s lavish retail store, which houses the largest collection of Waterford Crystal found anywhere in the world! Or, you can choose to join a local guide and explore 1,100 years of Waterford's history. From the Vikings to the Victorians, discover why Ireland’s oldest city is also one of its most important in terms of history, culture, and trade.
House of Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre
Activity Level: 2
Travelers can choose on the day.
Walking Tour of Waterford City
Activity Level: 2
Travelers can choose on the day.
Blarney Castle Blarney Castle is a medieval castle in Blarney near County Cork, Ireland. The castle was built nearly 600 years ago by Cormac MacCarthy. The castle is very popular with tourists because of the Stone of Eloquence, more commonly referred to as the Blarney Stone. Millions of tourists have flocked to the castle in kiss the Blarney Stone, located at the top of the castle.
Killarney Killarney is a town in County Kerry in southwestern Ireland. The town is on the shores of Lough Leane which is a part of Killarney National Park. Killarney has been welcoming tourists and visitors for over 250 years.
Ring of Kerry The Ring of Kerry is a 111-mile-long circular tourist route in County Kerry in southwestern Ireland. It is Ireland’s longest and one of its most diverse big circle driving routes. The route features beautiful beaches, lakes, medieval ruins, mountains and lakes. Driving The Ring is a very popular daytrip for tourists visiting the area, especially in the summer months.
Jaunting Car Ride A Jaunting Car Ride refers to a two wheeled carriage pulled by a single horse, with seating for 2 or 4 people placed back to back. This was the main mode of transport for people in Dublin throughout the 19th century and around other parts of Ireland at that time. Jaunting cars are primarily used in Ireland today for tourists.
Dublin Dublin is the capital and the largest city in Ireland. Dublin is located on Ireland’s east coast, and sits at the mouth of the River Liffey. Dublin was founded in 841 by the Vikings. Today, Dublin is the economic center of Ireland and the historical and contemporary center for industry, education and the arts.
Dublin City Tour by Bus or Dublin City Walking Tour Today you have the choice of joining a local guide for a panoramic tour of Dublin by bus that drives by the major sites, or you may wish to explore on foot with a local guide and see many of the landmarks up close and personal. The coach option allows minimal stops for photographs and very little walking.
Dublin City Tour by Bus
Activity Level: 2
This tour is roughly 3 hours in length and requires minimal walking. There will be several opportunities to get on/off the coach for photos if passengers choose.
Dublin City Waking Tour
Activity Level: 3
Must be able to walk for 3 hours at a leisurely pace over flat surfaces. Must have comfortable walking shoes and and rain equipment is recommended.
Traditional Irish Night
Mode of Transport
Travel through Britain and Ireland by motor coach, high-speed train, and ferry, ensuring a seamless and scenic journey across stunning landscapes and vibrant cities.
Accommodation
Stay at the Mercure Edinburgh Haymarket Hotel, DoubleTree by Hilton York, Canopy by Hilton London City, Clayton Hotel, Granville Hotel, Killarney Oaks Hotel, and Clayton Hotel Ballsbridge, offering comfort and convenience throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique cultural experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a whisky-inspired dinner in Scotland, a traditional afternoon tea in London, and an evening of Welsh music, poetry, and cuisine in Wales. Additionally, there is an evening of traditional Irish song and dance in Dublin.
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What is the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo?
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo is a world-famous event featuring performances from musicians, pipers, drummers, singers, and dancers. It takes place at Edinburgh Castle and includes military pageantry and cultural celebrations, culminating in a spectacular fireworks display.
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What options are available for exploring Waterford?
In Waterford, you can choose to tour the House of Waterford Crystal factory or take a walking tour of Ireland's oldest city to discover its rich Viking, Norman, and Cromwellian history.
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What can I expect from the jaunting car ride in Killarney?
The jaunting car ride in Killarney is a traditional experience where you explore Killarney National Park on a two-wheeled carriage pulled by a horse. This was a common mode of transport in 19th century Ireland and is now a popular tourist activity.
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What are the highlights of the walking tour in York?
The walking tour in York includes exploring the quaint, narrow streets of the 'Shambles' and visiting York Minster, the largest Gothic cathedral in Northern Europe, where you can admire its impressive stained-glass windows.
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What is the significance of the Blarney Stone?
The Blarney Stone is located at the top of Blarney Castle. According to legend, kissing the stone grants the 'gift of eloquence.'
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What can I expect during the visit to Cardiff Castle?
During the visit to Cardiff Castle, you will learn about its history as a Roman fort, a Norman castle, and a Victorian Gothic fantasy palace. The tour also includes insights into Cardiff's ties to the coal industry and its Victorian shopping arcades.
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Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?
Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.
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Can my children travel on tour?
Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.
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What is the difference between a twin room and double room?
In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.
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Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?
Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.
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Do I need a passport?
Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.
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Is there a lot of walking on tour?
We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.
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Aug 09, 2025 - Aug 23, 2025Saturday - Saturday
Aug 16, 2025 - Aug 30, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Collette requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of collette charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.