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Stunning panorama of Killary fjord, West Ireland

Complete Road Trip of the UK & Ireland

Capital Cities, Scottish Highlands & The Emerald Isle

(25 days / 24 nights)

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The beauty of England, Wales, Scotland & Ireland

Embark on the ultimate journey around the UK and Ireland with this unbeatable itinerary. You’ll explore the bustling cities of London, Edinburgh, Belfast and Dublin, rich in both history and culture. Plus, wander medieval streets in Bath and York and breathe in the serenity of Scotland’s west coast. Immerse yourself in the spectacular scenery of North Wales with its rolling green hills, ancient mountains and sparkling rivers. It’s a trip you’ll be talking about for years to come.

If you’d like to spend some more time exploring London or Dublin (or both!), you can add extra nights during the booking process.

25 days / 24 nights

Price p.p. from

GBP

The amount will be charged in GBP

Approx 4602 GBP

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— Why book with Nordic Visitor

  • Seamless travel experience
  • Handpicked hotels and routes designed by local experts
  • Reliable rental cars from trusted partners
  • Comprehensive itinerary, personalised map & travel guide
  • 24/7 helpline throughout tour
  • Service from local travel experts
  • Great customer reviews
  • Carbon offsetting included

Read more

— Cancellation Protection

  • Rebook your tour on one occasion, or
  • Cancel for any reason and receive a partial refund and travel credit

Terms and conditions apply

Tour Highlights

  • Get a taste of 5 countries in one trip: England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland
  • Explore some of Scotland’s top sights on the famous and breathtaking Isle of Skye
  • Discover the geological wonders of the Giant’s Causeway with its volcanic basalt columns
  • Marvel at the picture-perfect villages of the Cotswolds
  • Walk along gigantic sea cliffs to take in the beauty of the renowned Cliffs of Moher
  • Stroll around the romantic Scottish capital, Edinburgh, and explore its highlights
  • Admire the famous Stonehenge neolithic stone circle
  • Experience the picturesque world of Beatrix Potter in the Lake District
  • See the gems of Ireland’s most iconic driving route, the Ring of Kerry
  • Wander the Viking city of York and visit its monumental York Minster cathedral

Travel style

Self-Drive i

Interest

Castles and Royalty i, Classic i, Countryside and natural scenery i, Culture and History i

Season

Apr - Oct

Departure

Daily

Interest

Castles and Royalty i, Classic i, Countryside and natural scenery i, Culture and History i

Driving distance

4135/2570 km/mi

Itinerary

A day-by-day plan to guide your journey.

  • Day 1: Arrival in England

    Welcome to England! Once you’ve made your way to your accommodation in London, the rest of the day is free for you to explore the lively capital city.

    For a dose of history, head to the Tower of London Museum. Or board the famous London Eye to admire the city from above.

    You could also visit the nearby royal residence, Buckingham Palace. This grand palace is one of Britain’s most recognisable landmarks.

    And when it comes to dinner, you’re spoiled for choice. Take your pick from the huge variety of restaurants and food markets.

    Spend the night in London.

    If you’d like to explore more of this lively city, you can add an extra night in London during the booking process.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 2: Windsor Castle & Stonehenge

    This morning, you’ll pick up your rental car and hit the road. Your first stop will be at Windsor, where you can visit the ancient Windsor Castle. Admire intricate architectural details and mesmerising Georgian décor in this royal residence.

    Once you’ve explored Windsor, head to the awe-inspiring Stonehenge. Here you can delve into the history of the fascinating stone pillars and come up with your own theory of how the structure was formed.

    You’ll then continue your journey towards today’s destination, Bath.

    Spend the night in the Bath area.

    Average driving distance: 127 mi / 205 km.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 3: Relax in Historic Bath

    Today, you have the whole day to explore the spectacular ancient city of Bath, named after its Roman Baths which date back as far as 60 CE.

    Stroll along the winding River Avon and admire the grand Pulteney Bridge. Bath’s streets are lined with incredible Georgian-era architecture, so make sure you look up as you explore.

    For a dose of culture, visit the Jane Austen Centre, where you can discover the experience of the Austen family in Regency-era Bath. Or head to the magnificent Bath Abbey. This monumental cathedral is a haven of tranquillity within the city.

    Spend another night in the Bath area.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 4: Cotswolds & Stratford-upon-Avon

    Today, you’ll hit the road again. Your destination is North Wales, but we suggest making a couple of stops along the way.

    Stretch your legs in the picture-perfect Cotswolds region. The area is famous for its charming countryside and quaint villages.

    Stratford-upon-Avon is also a great place to stop. Fans of Shakespeare will love to visit his birthplace and the New Place Museum. From here, the drive north towards Wales cuts through the charming market town of Shrewsbury.

    Spend the night in the North Wales area.

    Average driving distance: 191 mi / 307 km.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 5: Discover Snowdonia

    After breakfast, head out to discover what Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park has to offer.

    You could explore the quaint town of Betws-y-Coed. Located right on the River Conwy, it’s a haven for outdoor activities. Take a stroll in the local woodlands to really soak up the atmosphere. The nearby Ogwen valley (Dyffryn Ogwen) is also well worth a visit.

    You’ll find Wales’s most famous castle, Caernarfon, just north of the national park. When you step inside this former royal fortress, you’ll feel like you’ve arrived back in an era of medieval grandeur.

    Spend another night in the North Wales area.

    Average driving distance: 148 mi / 239 km.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 6: Journey to York

    Today you’ll begin your journey to York. There are some beautiful places to stop at along the way, including Chester and Haworth.

    Chester is close to the Welsh border and is home to several fascinating Roman ruins. These include defensive city walls and the largest amphitheatre ever discovered in Britain.

    Haworth is famed for being the “hillside home of the Brontë family”. Thanks to the Brontë Parsonage Museum, it’s a must-visit for literary lovers.

    Then it’s on to today’s destination, spend the night in York.

    Average driving distance: 160 mi / 258 km.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 7: Explore York at Leisure

    Today you can explore every nook and cranny of the walled city of York. Take a walk past the medieval City Walls, the towering York Minster cathedral and the historic Shambles shopping street.

    Travel back in time with a visit to the Jorvik Viking Centre. This museum offers an immersive experience of life in Viking-era York.

    Or you could enjoy a scenic boat trip along the River Ouse. You’ll get to enjoy a new perspective of the city while gliding along the water’s surface.

    Spend another night in York. 

    Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 8: Yorkshire Dales & the Lake District

    Keep heading north towards the Lake District, admiring the rolling hills and lush greenery of the region.

    On the way, stop for a spot of shopping in Harrogate. The charming town’s streets are lined with boutique shops selling locally crafted items.

    You could also stop at the nearby city of Ripon. Visit the medieval Ripon Cathedral, wander the Fountains Abbey ruins, or admire beautiful horticulture at one of the city’s many gardens.

    And cheese lovers will want to stop at Hawes, the home of Wensleydale cheese!

    Spend the night in the Windermere area.

    Average driving distance: 114 mi / 184 km.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 9: Journey to Scotland

    Today you say goodbye to England and continue north to Scotland.

    You’ll travel through some more of the breathtaking Lake District. To experience more of this region, stop at the Castlerigg Stone Circle or take a stroll through nearby Keswick.

    Then you’ll cross the border at the world-famous Gretna Green and can drive through the historic spa town of Moffat.

    As you continue towards St Andrews, crossing the Queensferry Crossing, keep an eye out for the iconic Forth Railway Bridge.

    Upon arrival in St Andrews, make sure you head out to explore the seaside town. There are 3 beautiful beaches and a world-famous golf course, as well as castle and cathedral ruins to discover.

    Spend the night in St Andrews.

    Average driving distance: 239 mi / 384 km.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 10: Into the Highlands

    If you’re up bright and early, stroll around more of St Andrews’ charming cobblestone streets before jumping in the car to continue your road trip north.

    You’ll cross the River Tay and travel west towards Perth. From here, you’ll head north into the Cairngorms National Park.

    There’s several possible stops you could make along the way, such as the picturesque village of Dunkeld, the 13th-century Blair Castle or the Highland Folk Museum.

    Closer to Inverness, you could visit some interesting historic sights. The Culloden Battlefield and Clava Cairns are nearby.

    Spend the night in the Inverness area.

    Average driving distance: 155 mi / 250 km.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 11: Loch Ness, Castles & Isle of Skye

    After breakfast, drive along the shores of Loch Ness, where you can visit the Loch Ness Centre and Exhibition or explore the nearby Urquhart Castle ruins.

    From here, you’ll head west toward the breathtaking Isle of Skye. On the way, you may want to make a photo stop at the iconic Eilean Donan Castle, which you may recognise from countless films and TV shows.

    You’ll then visit the scenic village of Portree on Skye, where you can admire colourful buildings and dine on Scottish fare at a local restaurant.

    Spend the night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.

    Average driving distance: 115 mi / 185 km.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 12: The Isle of Skye

    Today, take advantage of having a full day on Skye. The island is a haven for nature lovers, with breathtaking landscapes all around.

    We recommend driving north and visiting the Trotternish Peninsula. Here you can enjoy a walk up to the “Old Man of Storr” rock pinnacle and marvel at the beautiful Kilt Rock waterfall.

    Other highlights include the Quiraing rock face, the An Corran Beach at Staffin (where you might spot ancient dinosaur footprints) and the mystical Fairy Glen.

    Spend another night on the Isle of Skye or nearby.

    Average driving distance: 45 mi / 70 km.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 13: Sleat Peninsula & Glenfinnan

    Head south to the Sleat Peninsula. On the way, stop off to enjoy a walk to the crystal-clear Fairy Pools at the foot of the Black Cuillin Hills. Or sample some single malt whisky at the Talisker Distillery.

    In the afternoon, catch a ferry from Armadale to Mallaig on the mainland. On your way to Fort William, why not stop at Camusdarach Beach? The white sand here will take your breath away.

    You could also stop at Glenfinnan and spot the Glenfinnan Viaduct, which you might recognise from the Harry Potter movies.

    Spend the night in the west coast area.

    Ferry duration: 30 minutes

    Average driving distance: 80 mi / 135 km.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 14: Stirling & Edinburgh

    You’ll drive through the magnificent Glen Coe valley, Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park regions today. Make sure you pull into one of the many parking spots along your route to snap some photos.

    Fans of Game of Thrones and Outlander will also want to stop at the imposing Doune Castle. Upon arrival in Stirling, you could pay a visit to Stirling Castle, to learn about the city’s storied past.

    Then, it’s on to Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh. Take to the streets on foot to soak up the city’s buzzing atmosphere.

    Spend the night in Edinburgh.

    Average driving distance: 162 mi / 261 km.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 15: Explore Edinburgh

    The day is yours to explore Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, at your leisure.

    Learn about the city’s fascinating history at Edinburgh Castle, located atop the craggy Castle Hill. From here, stroll down the cobblestone streets of the Old Town.

    Stop for a drink in the famous Grassmarket, before heading to the iconic Royal Mile. You could stop in at St Giles Cathedral or Holyrood Palace for an added dose of Scottish history.

    Or take the short stroll up Calton Hill for incredible views of the city. You’ll get a bird’s eye view over Princes Street, the castle, Arthur’s Seat, and more.

    Spend another night in Edinburgh.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 16: Travel to Dublin

    Today, board a flight to Dublin, Ireland for the final leg of your tour.

    Once you’ve checked into your hotel, the city is yours to explore. Its streets are eclectic, with a mix of heritage sites, museums and historic pubs.

    You can take a stroll along the cobbled streets of the Temple Bar district or visit the historic Trinity College to see the ancient Book of Kells.

    Alternatively, you could enjoy an afternoon tea sightseeing tour of the city on a vintage bus or grab a pint at the Guinness Storehouse for a taste of the world-famous beer.

    Spend the night in Dublin.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 17: Journey to Northern Ireland

    Today, you start your road trip to Northern Ireland.

    Your first stop of the day is the charming 12th-century Malahide Castle. Further along, you could visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Newgrange, where you can see megalithic passage tombs which are believed to be older than the Great Pyramids of Egypt. This is one of Ireland’s most popular and fascinating attractions.

    Next, stop to admire the high crosses of Monasterboice, the historic ruins of a Christian settlement. Then cross into Northern Ireland to reach the capital, Belfast.

    Spend the night in Belfast.

    Average driving distance: 191 km / 121 miles.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 18: Discover Belfast

    Today you have a full day to explore Belfast, an exciting city with a mix of Victorian grandeur, industrial grit and living history.

    Don’t miss out on the city’s leading attraction, the Titanic Belfast. Experience the story of the world’s largest and most luxurious ship, which was constructed here in 1909.

    You can also see the Peace Walls and their famous murals and admire the architecture of the City Hall. Or opt to visit the Ulster Folk Museum, a complete recreation of an early 1900s traditional Northern Irish town.

    Spend another night in Belfast.  

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 19: Giant’s Causeway & Antrim Coast

    Today you’ll explore the beautiful Antrim Coast. First, pass by the atmospheric Dark Hedges, a striking Game of Thrones filming location.

    If you prefer, skip this sight and follow the Antrim Coast via the town of Cushendall for a scenic detour.

    Then, enjoy a scenic coastal walk at Carrick-a-Rede to cross its rope bridge swaying 30 metres (98 feet) above the sea. You’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the cliffs below.

    The highlight of the day is the jewel of Northern Ireland, the Giant’s Causeway, a World Heritage Site with iconic basalt columns. Nearby, visit Bushmills Distillery, the world’s oldest whiskey distillery.

    We also recommend stopping for a view of the breathtaking, medieval ruins of Dunluce Castle, perched by dramatic coastal cliffs.

    Spend the night in the Donegal area.

    Average driving distance: 257 km / 160 miles.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 20: Discover Rugged Connemara

    Drive south through County Sligo, passing one of Ireland’s most recognisable mountains, the stunning Ben Bulben.

    You’ll journey through the picturesque town of Westport, before reaching the striking Connemara National Park. Take a stroll to soak up the rugged countryside with its white sand beaches and picture-perfect lakes.

    Stop by Killary harbour, Ireland’s only true fjord with a length of 16 kilometres (9.9 miles). Further along, visit Kylemore Abbey where you can admire spectacular Gothic architecture and take a stroll in the Victorian Walled Garden.

    If time allows, drive the circular Sky Road near Clifden for broad views of the Atlantic. Then arrive in Galway, a lively and colourful city.

    Spend the night in the Galway area.

    Average driving distance: 335 km / 209 miles.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 21: Cliffs of Moher & Limestone Landscapes

    After breakfast, head out to explore Dunguaire Castle. Sitting on a rocky outcrop overlooking Galway Bay, it’s one of the most photographed castles in Ireland.

    You could also visit the nearby lunar-like landscape of The Burren, before arriving at the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher. This region showcases some of the country’s most iconic coastal scenery.

    In the afternoon, head to the 15th-century Bunratty Castle. Here you’ll also find the Bunratty Folk Park, where you can discover what Irish rural life was like a century ago.

    Spend the night in the Killarney/Tralee area.

    Average driving distance: 269 km / 167 miles.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 22: Ring of Kerry

    Today you can take in the magic of the Ring of Kerry, a scenic driving route through the Irish countryside. Stop along the way at Kells Bay House, a hidden gem with breathtaking gardens.

    Other highlights around the route include the ancient stone forts of Caherdaniel and Staigue, and Derrynane Bay with its beautiful white sand. Complete the drive with a visit to the picturesque Torc Waterfall.

    You could also take an optional boat tour from the coast to see the Skellig Islands from up close. These otherworldly islands were recently featured in the Star Wars movies.

    Spend another night in the Killarney/Tralee area.

    Average driving distance: 198 km / 123 miles.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 23: Step into Ireland’s History

    On your way to Kilkenny, you can visit Blarney Castle, a legendary medieval stronghold that houses the Blarney Stone, surrounded by many myths and tales.

    You could also spend some time exploring Cork, Ireland’s “second city” with a vibrant cultural scene.

    Continue to Cashel, where you can visit the spectacular Rock of Cashel. The historic site is a fantastic collection of medieval buildings that span over 1,000 years of history.

    Then, it’s on to Kilkenny, a medieval town centred around a majestic 12th-century castle.

    Spend the night in the Kilkenny area.

    Average driving distance: 241 km / 150 miles.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions Attractions See Activities for this day

  • Day 24: Through the Wicklow Mountains to Dublin

    If you’d like to maximise your time in Dublin, you can head straight to the city this morning.

    Alternatively, you could take a drive through the scenic Wicklow Mountains to immerse yourself in the spellbinding landscape.

    While you’re in the area you could also visit Glendalough, a 6th-century monastic settlement, and the Powerscourt Estate, featuring the restored mansion Powerscourt House.

    You’ll find Ireland’s highest waterfall on the estate, as well as some magnificent gardens. Back in Dublin, enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure, perhaps with a delicious Irish dinner to round off your adventure.

    Spend the night in Dublin.

    Average driving distance to Dublin: 123 km / 77 mi.

    Average driving distance via Wicklow Mountains: 165 km / 102 mi.

    Attractions Attractions Attractions

  • Day 25: Departure from Dublin

    It’s time to say goodbye to Ireland as your adventure comes to an end. When you need to head to the airport, you can take a taxi, or we can arrange a convenient private transfer directly from your hotel.

    If your flight is in the afternoon, you can spend the morning enjoying some last-minute shopping, visiting one of the many attractions or simply relaxing and taking in the atmosphere of the city one last time.

    See Activities for this day
View full itinerary

Optional extras

Customise your adventure with these Optional Extras.

We recommend adding your extra activities to the tour now for the best booking experience and to secure your spot, as activities are likely to sell out.

Day One

london skyline sunset
Activity

Private Airport Transfer: London Heathrow to London

Duration 45 minutes
Price p.p. from

66GBP

GBP

View
a typical view of a london street with a red phone box
Activity

Private Airport Transfer: London Gatwick to London

Duration 1 hour 30 minutes
Price p.p. from

84GBP

GBP

View
View all extras
london skyline sunset
Activity

Private Airport Transfer: London Heathrow to London

Duration 45 minutes
Price p.p. from

66GBP

GBP

View
a typical view of a london street with a red phone box
Activity

Private Airport Transfer: London Gatwick to London

Duration 1 hour 30 minutes
Price p.p. from

84GBP

GBP

View
Stonehenge, England
Activity

Entry to Stonehenge

Duration 2 hours
Price p.p. from

33GBP

GBP

View
Loch Ness
Activity

Loch Ness Cruise

Duration 50 minutes
Price p.p. from

21GBP

GBP

View
View all extras

Map

Here’s a map of your travel route, to help put things in perspective.

What's included

Don’t worry, we’ve got this covered.

Included

Not included

Optional Extras

25 days / 24 nights

Price p.p. from

GBP

The amount will be charged in GBP

Approx 4602 GBP

Find your price
Request info

Essential information

We recommend that you read carefully through the following information before booking this self-drive tour in the UK and Ireland. We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions here so you know what to expect. You’ll also find more practical advice and attraction recommendations in our online UK Travel Guide and Ireland Travel Guide

On a self-drive tour, Nordic Visitor supplies you with a quality rental car and a detailed personal itinerary. You act as your own tour guide and driver, and you get to pick the road trip music!

All your services will be pre-booked by your personal travel consultant at Nordic Visitor. This includes your rental car and accommodation in the UK and Ireland, along with planned activities, as specified in the itinerary.

As this is a self-guided tour, you’re welcome to stop whenever and wherever you wish along the way. Except for accommodation and booked activities, other highlights we’ve listed in the itinerary are suggestions based on Nordic Visitor favourites.

And rest assured that we’re with you every step of the way. Upon your arrival, you’ll receive personalised information, including an itinerary, hand-annotated map and our very own regional Travel Guides. Plus, you’ll have access to our 24/7 helpline during your trip should you need to contact us.

While there is no minimum age to rent a car in the UK and Ireland, drivers under the age of 25 are subject to additional conditions:

  • When you collect your vehicle in each country, you'll need to pay an additional young driver surcharge. The total amount will be calculated based on the length of your rental period.
  • You will need to have held a full and valid driving licence for at least 1 year in both the UK and Ireland. If you are younger than 23, you will need to have been eligible to hold a licence for at least 4 years to rent in the UK.
  • In both countries, you can only rent certain vehicles. Please get in touch for more information.

You will travel between the UK and Ireland by plane. Your flight is included in the price of the tour package.

The direct flight takes approximately 1 hour. We’ll pre-book you a standard seat. Please note that baggage allowance per person is one 25kg checked bag and one 7kg carry-on bag.

We will aim to book your flight for around midday, but in some cases you may be booked onto a morning or evening flight. Your personal travel consultant will choose the best time possible in line with your travel plans.

Please note that airport transfers from your accommodation to the airport and from Dublin Airport to your accommodation are not included, but you can add them in the optional services.

The UK and Ireland are beautiful all year long. That said, it’s good to be aware that the summer is the high travelling season, with July and August being peak months.

This means many of the highlights, such as London, Edinburgh, Dublin, the Isle of Skye and the Ring of Kerry will be extremely popular and might have limited availability. This could impact your booking of attractions, accommodation, restaurants, excursions and more.

For a more relaxing experience, we recommend booking your tour, plus any extra excursions, activities or entrance tickets, well in advance. You also might prefer to arrive during the shoulder season, which is during April–June and September–October.

If you do wish to travel in July or August, we will be happy to help you plan your trip to make it as smooth as possible.

During your UK and Ireland tour, you’ll stay in accommodation hand-picked by our local travel experts. We’ve partnered with local businesses and selected hotels, B&Bs and guesthouses based on excellent ratings, comfort and our personal experience.

For this package, you can choose from single or double rooms. Twin, triple and family rooms are not commonly available in the UK and Ireland. Please also note that local room types are based on European standard sizes, which means they are smaller than in North America.

For example, a double room often consists of 2 single beds pushed together. And single rooms are often smaller than the standard double.

Due to the historic nature of the properties we usually select, most of the rooms are only accessible by stairs. Lifts are not always common in British and Irish hotels. Please let us know as soon as possible if you are not able to walk up stairs.

Travelling with your kids? No problem! Just let your travel consultant know during the booking process. We’ll arrange any cots needed at your accommodation.

If you need multiple rooms, please note that we can't guarantee family rooms or interconnecting rooms at all accommodation. You may even have rooms on different floors.

If you'd like us to arrange for a car seat to be provided for your trip, please let us know ahead of time. This will incur a small extra cost.

This itinerary includes a ferry crossing. To board, you’ll need to arrive at the port marked in your voucher and on your map. You will need to arrive a certain amount of time ahead of your departure, and this time will be noted on your voucher. Simply drive your car in the queue to board the ferry at the right time.

Summer in the UK and Ireland might be warmer than you expect! While temperatures are unlikely to reach higher than 20°C (68 °F), heatwaves can be humid. This means it can feel hotter than it is, especially in cities like London, Dublin and Edinburgh.

 

That said, the weather is also very changeable, so you’ll want to come prepared for anything. Rain is always a possibility, and when the sun sets a warm jumper or jacket is a must. We’ve prepared a useful packing guide for the UK and Ireland to help you decide what to bring with you.

 

Please note that sightseeing is dependent on weather and road conditions. This means that your itinerary might need to be altered if these conditions are not favourable during your visit. If something unexpected occurs, you can call our 24/7 helpline to speak directly with a Nordic Visitor staff member.

 

Whatever time of year you’re in Ireland and the UK, you’re likely to see lots of different types of weather. As you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors it’s a good idea to come prepared for a combination of weather conditions.

Here is a recommended packing list for a summer trip:

  • A warm jumper or fleece
  • A waterproof jacket
  • Good walking shoes or boots (especially if you intend to hike and go on nature walks)
  • Light scarf or thin sweater
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen and a sunhat

In some areas of Scotland, such as the Highlands and islands, you might notice small, pesky insects called midges. They’re most active on summer evenings and tend to swarm near still water. You can avoid bites by wearing long-sleeves and trousers and by packing an insect repellent.

For more information, check this packing list suggestion.

There are limited laundry facilities in the UK and Ireland’s countryside. You will find some laundrettes in cities like London, Dublin and Edinburgh. Some hotels do offer dry cleaning for an additional cost.

On your road trip around the UK and Ireland, you should budget for petrol costs of around £1.60–£2 per litre (similar in Euros too).

Your breakfast is included at all your accommodation in the UK and Ireland. For the rest of your food, your spending money will depend on the standard of restaurants you decide to go to.

In the UK, we recommend budgeting between £15–£20 per person for each day’s lunch. Dinners at casual restaurants here might cost between £20–£25. You can expect to pay a similar range in Euros for Ireland.

Meanwhile at upscale restaurants, you can expect to pay £40–£50 (€40–€50) or more. This does not include the cost of alcoholic beverages.

By booking with Nordic Visitor, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that there’s always someone there for you throughout your trip.

For support and advice during the day, you can call our office. And if anything unexpected happens outside working hours, you can reach us on our 24/7 helpline.

During your tour, there will always be an Edinburgh-based travel expert on call to handle any unforeseen situations, such as unusual weather or events.

Whether or not you need a visa to visit the UK and Ireland depends on your nationality.

From 2025, you need either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter the UK. This also applies to citizens from countries such as the USA, Canada, Australia and the EU.

This does not apply to Ireland, but if you’re staying in Northern Ireland (which is part of the UK) or transferring via a UK airport, you’ll also need an ETA.

You can find the complete list of countries whose nationals require a visa to enter each country on the website of the UK government and the website of Ireland’s Citizens Information Board.

Your passport must also be valid for at least 6 months after the date of your departure (the end of your tour). It’s a good idea to check your passport expiry date early in case you need to renew it.

Yes, you can customise this tour online. During the booking process, you can add extra nights to your itinerary as well as optional day trips, excursions and upgrades. 

If you have something specific in mind, get in touch with your travel consultant and they’ll create your dream trip.

It’s best to book as soon as you can to secure your preferred travel dates. Once you have picked your tour, check the availability calendar to see which months are open for booking. Then, select the date you want and complete your booking. 

Nordic Visitor offers 10–20% deposits so you can reserve your trip as early as it’s convenient for you. The remaining balance is due 30 days before you travel. 

Many tours are also open for the following year if you like to plan well ahead. And if you have any questions or need advice, you can always contact us. 

You can get in touch with our UK and Ireland travel experts ahead of your trip if you have any questions. The live chat option is useful for getting a quick reply as someone answers live every day during office opening hours.

Once you’ve booked, we’ll provide you with travel guides packed full of local tips and top attractions for your visit. You can also check out our online regional Travel Guides where we’ve compiled useful information about topics, including:

After you have booked your tour, it will only take a few days to confirm its availability. But it may take a few weeks to create your itinerary and book everything. Once your trip details are finalised, we’ll send you e-copies of your travel documents.

Upon your arrival in the UK, you’ll receive a welcome bag with hard copies of your itinerary, attraction and tour vouchers, the Nordic Visitor UK Travel Guide and more.

So when do you check in? And what can you expect upon landing in Scotland?

After picking up your luggage, make your way to your accommodation in the Edinburgh city centre. If you’ve come from another airport, such as Glasgow, you can take the train or book a private transfer.

Check-in times vary between hotels and guesthouses, but it normally starts between 2–4 PM.

You are welcome to request an early check-in for an additional fee. Although this isn’t always available, you’ll be able to store your luggage at the hotel if you have to wait. Please contact your travel consultant well in advance of your arrival if you’d like an early check-in.

So when do you check in? And what can you expect upon landing in the UK?

After picking up your luggage, make your way to your accommodation in the city centre. Airports in the UK have great public transport links, but you can always hop in a taxi or book a private transfer if you prefer.

Check-in times vary between hotels and guesthouses, but it normally starts between 2–4 PM.

You are welcome to request an early check-in for an additional fee. Although this isn’t always available, you’ll be able to store your luggage at the hotel if you have to wait. Please contact your travel consultant well in advance of your arrival if you’d like an early check-in.

When you depart may depend on the time of your return flight. Check out early if you’re heading to the airport for a morning flight. On the other hand, if you’re flying home later in the day, you might like to enjoy a leisurely day or visit one more attraction.

You will need to check out from your room, but will be able to store your luggage at the hotel reception. Simply return later to collect your bags before catching public transport or a taxi to the airport.

All UK bookings are billed in British Pounds (GBP).

Prices displayed in other currencies are indicative only and based on the daily exchange rate. This means conversions from GBP to other currencies will fluctuate from day to day.

Accommodation

Sleep soundly, in the accommodation type of your choice, and wake up ready to enjoy another day of exploration.

Comfort Plus

In this category, you can expect standard rooms in good quality 3-star guesthouses or country hotels.

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Superior

In this category, you can expect standard rooms in 4-star hotels or boutique guesthouses. This will be in combination with Superio..

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Rental car

Enjoy your road trip with 2 authorised drivers and Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) to reduce liability.

Vauxhall Astra (manual)
or similar

  • x5
  • x5
  • x2
  • M
View Info

Vauxhall Astra (manual)
or similar

  • Description: Compact
  • Passengers: 5
  • Luggage: 2
  • Doors: 5
  • Transmission: Manual
Close Info View

Toyota Auris (automatic)
or similar

  • x5
  • x5
  • x3
  • A
View Info

Toyota Auris (automatic)
or similar

  • Description: Economy
  • Passengers: 5
  • Luggage: 3
  • Doors: 5
  • Transmission: Automatic
Close Info View

Ford Mondeo (automatic)
or similar

  • x5
  • x5
  • x4
  • A
View Info

Ford Mondeo (automatic)
or similar

  • Description: Standard
  • Passengers: 5
  • Luggage: 4
  • Doors: 5
  • Transmission: Automatic
Close Info View

Ford Mondeo Estate (automatic)
or similar

  • x5
  • x5
  • x5
  • A
View Info

Ford Mondeo Estate (automatic)
or similar

  • Description: Standard Estate
  • Passengers: 5
  • Luggage: 5
  • Doors: 5
  • Transmission: Automatic
Close Info View

Vauxhall Grandland (automatic)
or similar

  • x5
  • x5
  • x3
  • A
View Info

Vauxhall Grandland (automatic)
or similar

  • Description: SUV
  • Passengers: 5
  • Luggage: 3
  • Doors: 5
  • Transmission: Automatic
Close Info View

Mercedes Vito (automatic)
or similar

  • x8
  • x4
  • x5
  • A
View Info

Mercedes Vito (automatic)
or similar

  • Description: Standard
  • Passengers: 8
  • Luggage: 4
  • Doors: 5
  • Transmission: Automatic
Close Info View

Price per person from

GBP

The amount will be charged in GBP

Approx 4602 GBP

Request info

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