16-day Heart of the British Isles Tour
Tour Map
16-day tour featuring England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland. A showcase tour of Britain and Ireland awaits you. Ancient castles, glorious cathedrals, royal venues, and majestic countryside make this an enchanting journey. Two-night stays in five of the overnight cities contribute to an in-depth tour with many highlights.
| 2022 Departure Dates | Price* | |
|---|---|---|
| SOLD OUT | $3,740 pp | |
| May-09-2022 | $200PP DISCOUNT | $3,740 pp |
| Jun-15-2022 | $200PP DISCOUNT | $3,740 pp |
| Aug-01-2022 | $200PP DISCOUNT | $3,890 pp |
| SOLD OUT | $3,890 pp | |
| SOLD OUT | $3,740 pp | |
| Sep-07-2022 | $200PP DISCOUNT | $3,740 pp |
| Sep-12-2022 | $200PP DISCOUNT | $3,740 pp |
| SOLD OUT | $3,740 pp | |
| Sep-21-2022 | $200PP DISCOUNT | $3,740 pp |
| SOLD OUT | $3,740 pp | |
Tour Year 2022
DAY 1- Overnight flight to Great Britain.
The Trip Documents will provide guidance for airport check-in and for arrival in the British Isles. Relax on your transatlantic flight with the assurance that Image Tours has taken care of all the details.
DAY 2- ENGLAND . . Arrival at London Airport - Oxford - Warwickshire.
Upon arrival, clear passport control and collect your luggage. Refer to the "Arrival Instructions" in your Trip Documents for directions on where and when to meet your tour manager. During the motor coach transfer to your hotel in Warwickshire, make a brief stop in Oxford where Henry II established the first university of Britain in 1167. Tonight at your hotel, get acquainted with your fellow travelers during the "Welcome Dinner." (Dinner)
DAY 3- ENGLAND . . Stow-on-the-Wold - Stratford-Upon-Avon - Warwickshire.
Views of the unspoiled countryside known as the Cotswolds clearly confirm you have arrived in England. Gentle hillsides, peaceful meadows, and charming villages with old stone buildings characterize this region. The first destination today is Stow-on the-Wold, offering antique shops and an opportunity to get a souvenir photo with your hands in the village's authentic stocks. Then it's on to Stratford-Upon Avon, where half-timbered houses and thatched-roof cottages create a truly English setting. The introductory tour includes a picture stop in front of Anne Hathaway's cottage and entrance to the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Enjoy some free time in Stratford Upon-Avon or join the optional Warwick Castle excursion to the 1,000-year-old stronghold. Return to your Warwickshire hotel for dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 4- ENGLAND . . York - Darlington.
Drive north via the Nottingham area. Around lunch time, arrive in the historic city of York and spend the afternoon exploring the sights that most interest you. "The Shambles" is one of the most picturesque streets in Britain with unique shops, cafés and restaurants. York also boasts the most complete example of medieval city walls still standing in England today. Walk along sections of the city walls for exceptional views. Be sure to take a look inside York Minster Cathedral, the largest Gothic church in England. In the late afternoon, travel through North Yorkshire to Darlington for hotel check-in and dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 5 - ENGLAND . . Hadrian's Wall & SCOTLAND . . Jedburgh - Edinburgh
A morning drive takes you to Hadrian's Wall, a fascinating Roman monument nearly 2,000 years old. Study one section of the 70-plus mile structure at the location of Chester's Roman Fort. Shortly after crossing the border into Scotland, reach Jedburgh where you will be treated to an English Tea with cakes and finger sandwiches. Following tea, use your free time in Jedburgh to tour the Mary Queen of Scots House, view Jedburgh Abbey, or do some shopping at the Woollen Mill. A late afternoon arrival at your Edinburgh hotel provides time to freshen up and relax. Dinner is independent, or join the optional Scottish Dinner Show excursion. (Breakfast, English Tea)
DAY 6 - SCOTLAND . . Edinburgh
Start the day with a guided tour of Edinburgh. After the tour, a good place to spend your free time is along the Royal Mile in Edinburgh's Old Town. As you walk past the classic old houses, you may wish to stop at one of the unique attractions such as the Palace of Holyroodhouse, Edinburgh Castle, Writer's Museum, Gladstone's Land (the oldest standing house in Edinburgh), Museum of Childhood, or the high-tech Our Dynamic Earth Museum. Edinburgh offers a variety of options for tonight's independent dinner. For tours visiting Edinburgh during the first two weeks of August, Image Tours includes attendance to the world famous Edinburgh Military Tattoo, a spectacular show by military bands, performed outside the castle. (Breakfast)
DAY 7- SCOTLAND . . Gretna Green & ENGLAND . . Liverpool.
Travel southeast to the border town of Gretna Green for a visit to the Old Blacksmith's Shop. Gretna Green became well known for "run-away weddings" officiated by the blacksmith. Starting in 1754, English couples would cross the border to be married under the liberal terms of the Scottish laws. Continuing south from Gretna Green, travel back into England and on to Liverpool, the birthplace of the Beatles. A 4:00 p.m. arrival at your Liverpool hotel provides time to explore and shop. Your tour manager will offer an optional Magical Mystery Tour excursion highlighting landmarks made famous by the Beatles. Dinner is independent tonight so that you may choose to dine at the hotel or at one of the pubs, restaurants or live music venues along Mathew Street. Here you will find the replicated Cavern Club, where the Beatles regularly played during their early years. (Breakfast)
DAY 8- WALES . . Snowdonia- Caernarfon - Ferry from Holyhead & IRELAND . . Dublin.
This day is devoted to the sweeping landscape of Northern Wales. After a morning stop in Betws-y-Coed, continue through the thick pine forest into Snowdonia National Park, a mountainous region with rough but beautiful terrain. At Caernarfon, view one of the castles built by King Edward I. A quick independent lunch will allow time to climb the castle's tower (£11.00 admission fee). After the motor coach crosses the Menai Bridge onto the Isle of Anglesey, pause to take a picture of the town with the longest name, which we abbreviate here as Llanfair P.G. An independent dinner allows you the choice of dining while you ferry from Wales to the Republic of Ireland or at a pub upon arrival in Dublin. (Breakfast)
DAY 9 - IRELAND . . Dublin
The capital city of the Republic of Ireland offers much to keep you busy and entertained. A local guide joins you this morning to provide insight into the city's history and to point out the popular landmarks including Dublin Castle, Trinity College and the Guinness Brewery. Entrance into St. Patrick's Cathedral is included. Following the city tour, the afternoon is free for individual pursuits. A popular attraction is the Book of Kells at the Trinity College Library (€12.00 admission fee), an ornately decorated and meticulously scribed edition of the Gospels from 800 AD. Equally popular is a tour of the Guinness Brewery (€25.00). Tonight's dinner is independent, or join the optional Irish Dinner Show excursion. (Breakfast)
DAY 10- IRELAND . . Dublin - Kildare - Irish Countryside - County Kerry.
The area west of Dublin has become known as the center of the Irish horse breeding and training industry. After touring the Kildare National Stud Farm, visit the Japanese Gardens of Tully House. As you continue toward western Ireland, relax and enjoy the scenic land of meadows, glens and crystal clear rivers. One of the friendly country villages along the way will provide a pleasant spot for an independent lunch. Bakeries will offer you tea sandwiches, and family-owned pubs will serve up hearty Irish dishes. Then it's on to your County Kerry hotel, hosting you for dinner this evening and a two-night stay. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 11 - IRELAND . . Ring of Kerry- Killarney - County Kerry
Travel to the Iveragh Peninsula, also known as "The Ring of Kerry," for a day of spectacular coastal landscapes. The day will include several photo stops as well as lunch at one of the seaside villages. At one of the farms en route from the coast to Killarney, observe a sheep herding demonstration. For tonight's independent dinner, Killarney offers everything from excellent restaurants to local pubs. After dinner, return to your County Kerry hotel. (Breakfast, Lunch)
DAY 12- IRELAND . . Blarney Castle - Waterford.
The morning visit to Blarney Castle is sure to be a tour highlight. Capture enchanting photos and impressive views as you walk the grounds and study this 18-feet-thick, 17th-century fortification from various angles. Learn of the magical tales associated with the castle, the most famous being about the Blarney Stone. Enjoy an independent lunch at one of the charming restaurants in the village of Blarney. An early afternoon arrival in Waterford allows for time to explore the town on foot or participate in the optional Waterford Crystal Experience excursion. Dinner is included at your hotel. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 13- IRELAND . . Waterford - Ferry from Rosslare & WALES . . Pembroke - Cardiff.
An early morning departure is necessary to reach the ferry in Rosslare. As you ferry from Ireland to Wales, you will have time for an independent lunch on board. Leaving the ferry, view the varied scenery along the coastal road between Pembrokeshire National Park and the Wye Valley. By mid-afternoon, arrive in Cardiff, the capital city of Wales. Take a stroll through the 56-acre Bute Park, relax over afternoon tea at a café, or participate in the optional Cardiff Castle excursion. Continue to your hotel near Cardiff for check-in and dinner. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 14- ENGLAND . . Bath - Stonehenge - London.
Crossing the mouth of the River Severn, return to England for a tour of Bath, the elegant spa town where the Romans harnessed the natural hot springs 2,000 years ago. An included visit to the Roman Baths Museum reveals the advanced engineering developed by the Romans. Then, it is on to mysterious Stonehenge. Dating back to about 1500 B.C., one can only speculate how the stones reached the site and how they were moved into place - some weighing 45 tons! Upon arrival in London, check in and enjoy a relaxing "Farewell Dinner" at the hotel. Tomorrow, the entire day will be devoted to sightseeing in the British capital. (Breakfast, Dinner)
DAY 15- ENGLAND . . London.
Today begins with a guided bus tour of London’s famous landmarks such as the Royal Parks, Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament with Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Trafalgar Square. Following the city tour, you will have a few hours to pursue one or two of your personal interests. If you have a specific destination in mind, the Tube system (Underground) is easy, fast and economical. Your tour manager will also provide suggestions for some of central London's most popular attractions. Spend lunch time amid the bustling shops and street performers of Covent Garden. Or, study works of art by da Vinci, van Gogh, Rembrandt, Michelangelo and Picasso at the National Gallery. Located nearby, the London Eye Ferris wheel provides unique views of the city. In the evening, London offers numerous options for independent dining and entertainment. Or, join your tour manager for the optional London Dinner & Theatre excursion. (Breakfast)
DAY 16- Daytime flight back to U.S.A.
Transfer to the London airport for the return flight home. (Breakfast)
- Tour Stratford-Upon-Avon of Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway fame
- See the 2,000 year-old Hadrian’s Wall at Chester’s Roman Fort
- Join the locals for British “high tea” with cakes and finger sandwiches
- Discover the medieval charm of Edinburgh’s Castle and Royal Mile
- Visit the Cavern Club in Liverpool where the Beatles were discovered
- Take in the Ring of Kerry scenery and a sheep herding demonstration
- Witness the detailed craftsmanship behind Waterford Crystal
- Ponder the mystery of how ancient Stonehenge was constructed
- Wave like royalty at London's Buckingham Palace
- Accommodations in Superior Tourist Class or First Class hotels
- 14 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 7 Dinners and 1 English Tea in addition to any in-flight meals
- Tour Manager for the full European duration of the tour
- Land Transportation in Europe by deluxe, air-conditioned motor coach
- Baggage Handling at hotels
- Image Tours Touroclopedia® trip preparation tips
- Trip Documents with luggage tags, final details and travel guidance
The Availability, Departure Dates, and Rates are for illustration and planning purposes only. Since final pricing and single availability can only be confirmed with a travel agent, steps 4 & 5 of this on-line booking module is reserved for your travel agent only. (Please Call) indicates that we still have some tour availability; however, you should have your travel agent call our office to confirm air availability.
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May 04, 2022
May 19, 2022
$3,740 p.p.d.o.
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Aug 03, 2022
Aug 18, 2022
$3,890 p.p.d.o.
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Sep 05, 2022
Sep 20, 2022
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Mercure Warwickshire Walton Hall Hotel & Spa
Walton, Wellesbourne Warwickshire, England (UK)- hairdryer
- satellite TV
- free WI-FI
- elevator
- restaurant
- terrace
- bar
- indoor pool
- fitness center
Holiday Inn Scotch Corner
Darlington, England- hairdryer
- TV
- mini-bar
- in-room safe
- free WIFI
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
- indoor swimming pool
Mercure Edinburgh - Princes Street
Edinburgh, Scotland- hairdryer
- TV
- free WIFI
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
- safety deposit box at reception
Holiday Inn Liverpool City Centre
Liverpool, England- hairdryer
- air conditioning
- satellite TV
- free WIFI
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
- safety deposit box at reception
Ashling Hotel Dublin
Dublin, Ireland- hairdryer
- satellite TV
- in-room safe
- free WIFI
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
Staycity Dublin City Quay
Dublin, Ireland- Kitchenette
- hairdryer
- free WIFI
- TV
- elevator
- café
- fitness center
The Ashe Hotel
Tralee, Ireland- hairdryer
- Television
- free WIFI
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
Charleville Park Hotel
Charleville, Ireland- hairdryer
- air conditioning
- TV
- in room safe
- free WIFI
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
- indoor pool
- terrace
- sauna
Waterford Marina Hotel
Waterford, Ireland- hairdryer
- satellite TV
- free WIFI
- in-room safe
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
Holiday inn Cardiff Central
Cardiff, Wales- hairdryer
- air conditioning
- TV
- free WIFI
- mini-bar
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
- garden
Hilton London Kensington
London, England- hairdryer
- air conditioning
- TV
- free WIFI
- mini-bar
- in-room safe
- elevator
- restaurant
- bar
- fitness center
- sauna
- steam bath
WARWICK CASTLE
3; 1:30 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. $50.00Drive to Warwick for a fascinating and intriguing guided tour showcasing over 1,000 years of history. The castle was originally built in 1068 by William the Conqueror to protect the small settlement from Danish invaders. Over the centuries, Warwick has grown into one of the most dramatic and complete medieval castles, with the grounds being equally impressive to the interior.
SCOTTISH DINNER SHOW
5; 6:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. $105.00Prestonfield’s “Taste of Scotland” offers traditional singing, dancing and music. During the dinner, served throughout the entertaining show, sample typical Scottish fare. The evening would not be complete without the customary Ceremony of the Haggis.
MAGICAL MYSTERY TOUR
7; 4:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. $35.00A local guide takes you to popular Liverpool landmarks and famous Beatles sites, such as Strawberry Fields and Penny Lane.
IRISH DINNER SHOW
9; 6:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m. $100.00Highly entertaining performances of authentic music, song and dance engage the audience in a festive atmosphere during a 3-course dinner of Irish dishes. One glass of beer, wine or soft drink is included. The show features Ireland's leading traditional music group
WATERFORD CRYSTAL EXPERIENCE
12; 4:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. $15.00The documented history of glass making in Ireland dates back as far as the 13th century. Waterford Crystal got its start in the late 1700s and became known worldwide for its purity of color, high standard of quality, and traditional cutting patterns. Tour the new
CARDIFF CASTLE
13; 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m. $40.00A private guide will explain the 2,000 year history of the castle, from the arrival of the Romans through the Norman Conquest and the lavish Victorian era. The tour also visits rooms not open to general admission, including an apartment decorated as a medieval fairy tale home.
LONDON DINNER & THEATRE
15; 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. $145.00Dine at one of London’s fine restaurants. Then, see a Broadway show in one of the distinctive theatres. Your Final Trip Documents will announce the specific show featured for your tour.