Scott Dunn - The Johnson's explore England and Ireland

Mr and Mrs Johnson

Friday 7th February – Friday 28th February 2025

Number of Travellers: 2
Duration: 22 Days / 21 Nights

Overview

Spend time in the capital city of England before heading out to the picturesque villages and rolling hills of the Cotswolds and the Lake District  This immersive trip across the UK will give you plenty of time to discover places under your own steam as well as enjoying time with knowledgable guides who will get you under the skin of the country.  From E-biking along the country lanes to tasting foods from across the country, you will sure to make memories to last a lifetime.

Picturesque coastal towns and villages, green pastoral fields, soaring cliffs, wild barren landscapes, the crash of the ocean, the laugh of a local. Ireland is romantic, and authentic, a home away from home where both old and modern seem to cohabit seamlessly on a small island in the middle of the sea. Packed with history and tradition your days are spent exploring the island of Ireland’s famous and off-the-beaten-track sites of natural, cultural and political interest. A world-renowned food scene means your evenings are spent dining in style and with the promise of a pub just around the corner, music and laughter are never far away. Your trip to Ireland will surprise and delight you but the people of Ireland will stay with you, long after your journey has taken you home.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day by Day

Day 1 - Friday 7th February - Welcome to London

On arrival in London, transfer to your centrally located hotel and take some time to relax ahead of your first evening in England. An unmissable destination for travellers, the capital city is an international melting pot that brims with culture, history and iconic landmarks. With a well-known and well-deserved reputation for an eclectic and globally diverse food scene, your dinner this evening is sure to be a thoroughly enjoyable affair.

Later, draw the curtains on the twinkling lights of the city to enjoy a good night’s sleep ahead of an exciting day of exploring tomorrow.

Overnight: London | Haymarket Hotel, London
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Room
Meals Included: None

Day 2 - Saturday 8th February - Exploring the Capital

You will be met in the lobby of your hotel this morning by your dapper driver and head out to explore the city in a classic Mini Cooper – one of the most recognised British cars in the world!  Nip through the city, stopping off to see the iconic sites as well as some of the lesser known areas.  Stop off for a coffee or perhaps a cheeky half pint in a local pub as you get off the beaten track to see the Best Bits of London with your expert guide.

After an immersive morning, you will be dropped back off at your hotel where the rest of the day is free for you to explore the city under your own steam or relax at your hotel.

Overnight: London | Haymarket Hotel, London
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 3 - Sunday 9th February - Free day in the Capital

Enjoy a free day in the Capital today as you head out to explore at your leisure.  From green parks to Royal Palaces, there is so much to explore that you may not be able to fit it all in.  Perhaps jump aboard an iconic red bus and see the sights from the top deck.  Or take a walk along the embankment, watching the river traffic move slowly up and down.

Take some time to have a coffee and watch the world go by, London is full of wonderful sights and scenes that it is great to be able to drink it all in.

Overnight: London | Haymarket Hotel, London
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 4 - Monday 10th February - Sights and Smells and All Things Nice

Head out this morning to meet your expert foodie guide today as you take an immersive tour of London’s food scene.  Let you tastebuds tingle as you sample foods from the national dish to some of the more quirky foods that London is known for.  Venture into some of the lesser known places and meet local producers who can regale you with tales of how their food is produced.

After a wonderful experience the rest of the day is yours to explore more of London under your own steam before returning to your hotel for the night.

Overnight: London | Haymarket Hotel, London
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Room
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 5 - Tuesday 11th February - Free day in London

For your final day in London you can head out to explore again on your own.  Perhaps you might like to visit Kew Gardens, well know for their amazing plant collections.  Or head into one of the many museums that London is well known for, from the Tate to the National Gallery – there is something for everyone.

Or maybe visit Westminster Abbey where you can stop in the peace and tranquility for a moment and reflect on your time in the capital city.

This evening you could head out for one last meal in the city or perhaps take in a West End Show – the choice is yours!

Overnight: London

Day 6 - Wednesday 12th February - London to the Cotswolds

Leave the bustling metropolis of London behind and head west into the Cotswolds – a region cherished for its pastoral charm, pretty villages, flower-rich limestone grassland and deep incised valleys. The inspiration for many works of art and literature, including Beatrix Potter, J.R.R Tolkien and Laurie Lee, it’s a pretty and interesting place to explore. On the way you will stop at Oxford where you will meet your main guide who will also be your driver for the remaining time in England as well as an expert guide who will take you on a wonderful tour of the city.  From the cloisters of the university to the historical monuments there are lots of places to see as well as getting under the skin of the city with some places not really known to tourists.

Later on, head into the countryside and your boutique accommodation which is your base for the next three nights.

Overnight: Broadway | The Fish Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Veranda Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 7 - Thursday 13th February - E-Biking in the Cotswolds

Head out on some E-Bike’s this morning with your guide as you spend the morning exploring the quiet country lanes of the Cotswolds.  Roll through chocolate box villages, along hedge lined roads and across open countryside with far stretching views across this beautiful part of England.  Your guide will stop off at points of interest and you can even stop for a reviving English pint at a cosy country pub on your travels.

Later on, you can explore more of the area – perhaps enjoy a short hike up Broadway Tower where you can see 5 counties laid out before you and on a clear day, even across to Wales.  Or take a wander around Broadway with their boutique shops and independent cafes.

Overnight: Broadway | The Fish Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Veranda Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 8 - Friday 14th February - Exploring the Cotswolds

Head out with your guide today to explore more of the beautiful surroundings with a lovely, low level hike.  Drink in the smells of the countryside as you walk alongside the rivers and through the fields with your guide regaling you with tales of the place as well as pointing out the local wildlife that are abundant in the hills.

Head back in time for lunch before enjoying a free afternoon to either rest at your hotel or explore more of the village.

Overnight: Broadway | The Fish Hotel
Room Type: 1 x Veranda Room
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 9 - Saturday 15th February - To Bath

A private transfer will collect you from your hotel this morning and take you onto your next location.  On arrival at your hotel you can drop your bags and decide what to do with the rest of your day.

Perhaps take a tour of the famous Roman Baths and enjoy a decadent afternoon tea in the Pump Rooms.  Or take a tour of Bath Abbey which is the ending point of the iconic Cotswolds Way long distance walking route.

Tonight, you could dine in one of the many restaurants in the city, enjoying the hustle and bustle of city life after a few nights in the countryside.

Overnight: Bath | The Bird
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 10 - Sunday 16th February - Exploring Bath

Head out this morning with your guide to enjoy a wonderful walking tour of the city. As the beautiful Georgian architecture presses honey-yellow against the blue sky, soak in the sights and sounds of a city founded by the Romans for well-being and relaxation.

This afternoon is free to continue your explorations, perhaps a visit to the Victoria Arts Gallery, a tranquil and thought-provoking place beyond the colourful and bustling streets. Or spend the time to immerse yourself in Bath’s remarkable collection of museums, independent shops and delicious restaurants.

Overnight: Bath | The Bird
Room Type: 1 x Deluxe King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 11 - Monday 17th February - To The Lakes

A private transfer will collect you from your hotel this morning and take you to the train station in time for your train north to the Lakes.  Sit back and watch the scenery change from the honey coloured stone buildings of the Cotswolds to the rolling hills of the Lakes.

On arrival at the station, your guide will be waiting for you and will transfer you to your hotel.  On the way, you can stop off for a leg stretch to enjoy some beautiful vies or a short hike to freshen you up from the train journey.

Your hotel overlooks the famous Windemere lake so sit back and enjoy your time here after a long travel day.

Overnight: Windemere | Langdale Chase
Room Type: 1 x Windemere Lake View Double
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 12 - Tuesday 18th February - Visiting Grasmere and Dove Cottage

This morning join your guide to head into Grasmere, undoubtedly one of the prettiest villages in the Lakes. Enjoy a visit to Dove Cottage, where William Wordsworth lived with his sister Dorothy from 1799 to 1808. Step back in time as you explore the tranquil rooms, still full of the late poet’s possessions. Afterwards, head out for a mellow circular walk, soaking up the stunning views that stretch across Rydal Water, Grasmere Lake and the steep surrounding fells. Arrive back in the village and spend some time strolling along the narrow streets, popping into artisan shops and perhaps picking up some famous Grasmere Gingerbread. Enjoy some free time this evening, choosing to do just as you please.

Overnight: Windemere | Langdale Chase
Room Type: 1 x Windemere Lake View Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 13 - Wednesday 19th February - Ullswater Cruise and Walk Glenridding

Enjoy a boat cruise across Ullswater this morning, a beautiful lake carved out by a long-extinct glacier and flanked by fells rich in prehistoric remains. Relax on deck as you glide across the shimmering water, listening to the insightful crew’s commentary on the area’s fascinating history. Disembark at Howtown, a hamlet on the eastern shores, and enjoy a beautiful walk along the lakeshore back to Glenridding. As a long, grey heron flies elegantly across the sky, enjoy chatting with your guide as you walk, identifying birds and stopping for snacks and photos.

Your guide will drop you back at the hotel in the late afternoon, bidding you farewell and leaving you to enjoy one last night in the English countryside.

Overnight: Windemere | Langdale Chase
Room Type: 1 x Windemere Lake View Double
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 14 - Thursday 20th February - To Ireland

A private transfer will collect you from your accommodation and take you to the airport to your flight to Ireland for the next part of your adventure.

Arriving in Dublin this afternoon, a private transfer will pick you up from the airport and take you to your centrally located hotel in the city. The rest of today is open to explore more and Dublin is best explored on foot or using public transport such as the LUAS, our light rail system. Many of Dublin’s highlights are within walking distance and indeed you will discover it is in the act of wandering from one to another where you will soak up Dublin’s authentic atmosphere.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Room Type: x1 Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 15 - Friday 21st February - Historical Walking Tour

There is no better introduction to Dublin than a walking tour with a local private guide through this vibrant capital city, with its mix of 1,000 years of architecture from the mediaeval to Georgian to modern. See the Georgian-style Merrion Square, lush St. Stephen’s Green and Fitzwilliam Square, and the GPO on O’Connell Street, the site of the ‘1916 Uprising’ that led to Ireland’s independence in 1922. Your guide is also a historian who will bring the city to life with colourful tales of life in the city in times gone by.

Overnight: Dublin | The Merrion Hotel
Room Type: x1 Superior King
Meals Included: Breakfast

Day 16 - Saturday 22nd February - The Rock of Cashel & Killarney

Your private guide will meet you in the lobby of your hotel this morning and after some short introductions, you will begin your journey to Ireland’s South West. En route, you’ll stop at the Rock of Cashel, an immaculately preserved cathedral overlooking the sweeping landscape below. Enjoy lunch before continuing to Killarney, known worldwide for its live music, and traditional pubs and home to one of Ireland’s most stunning National Parks. Tonight your guide will take you to a vibrant and energetic traditional Irish dance and music show that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Ireland.

Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House Hotel
Room Type: x 1 Superior Room, Garden Wing
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 17 - Sunday 23rd February - Killarney National Park

Killarney National Park is the most famous of Ireland’s national parks – and with good reason, as it is flourishing with breathtaking mountains, lakes and waterfalls. You’ll rent some e-bikes and pedal through the oldest and most awe-inspiring national park in Ireland, where every turn reveals a new facet of Killarney’s charm. Your guided tour takes you along routes that offer uninterrupted views of the Mangerton mountains, emerald forests, and the famed Lakes of Killarney. Keep an eye out for the park’s herd of native Red Deer!

Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House Hotel
Room Type: x 1 Superior Room, Garden Wing
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 18 - Monday 24th February - The Dingle Peninsula with a Falconry Experience

The county of Kerry is made up of four peninsulas, The Kerry Head, The Beara, The Iveragh and probably its most well-known,  The Dingle Peninsula and your destination today. Following a relaxed Irish breakfast hit the road to explore the beautiful Dingle Peninsula. This is Gaeltacht country where the Irish language is still widely spoken as a first language and culture and traditions remain strong. Tour around the peninsula visiting a fascinating array of ancient sites including Iron Age forts, beehive huts, inscribed stones, and historical churches. The Peninsula culminates at the dramatic Slea Head—Europe’s most western point. Before leaving, meet some feather friends on an exhilarating Hawk Walk. Watch as these magnificent birds of prey swoop and soar with breathtaking speed and learn all about their fascinating habits.

Overnight: Killarney | Cahernane House Hotel
Room Type: x 1 Superior Room, Garden Wing
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 19 - Tuesday 25th February - Irish Villages & The Cliffs of Moher

Leaving the Kingdom of Kerry behind this morning, make your way into the neighbouring counties of Limerick and Clare. Your first stop this morning is into the buzzing village of Adare, where you can stretch your legs with a wander between its traditional thatched-roof cottages, local art galleries, and warming cafes. We take advantage of a quiet evening to visit The Cliffs of Moher after the crowds of the day have departed. Standing over 800 feet tall, the cliffs are home to a myriad of seabirds and a hive of activity. From there, it’s a short drive to your hotel, Gregan’s Castle, a former retreat for poets and authors such as J.R.R. Tolkien and C.S. Lewis. You’ll be back in time for a cool pint of Guinness by the fire before dinner at your leisure at its award-winning restaurant.

Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Gregans Castle
Room Type: x1 Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 20 - Wednesday 26th February - 4x4 Experience on the Aran Islands

We hope the weather gods are on our side today as we head out to visit one of the remote islands that dot the Irish coastline. Inis Mor (Inishmore) is the largest of the three Aran Islands and our destination this morning. Explore the island with the aid of some off-road adventure vehicles as your local guides, Padraig and Aonghus bring you to all the off-the-beaten-track spots on the islands that only their 4×4 can reach. Learn of the Irish language spoken on the islands, the unique Irish culture and traditions of the local people, the flora and fauna that inhabit the islands and of course the filming site from the recent Banshees of Inisherin film!

Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Gregans Castle
Room Type: x1 Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 21 - Thursday 27th February - The Burren, Bread Baking & Farm Tours

The Burren’s rocky alien landscape is said to be the inspiration for Middle Earth in JRR Tolkien’s world-famous Lord of the Rings trilogy – and today as you explore this other-worldly region, it’s easy to see why! Spend the day exploring The Burren with your guide from prehistoric stone forts to lunch at a local tearoom, followed by a visit to the adjoining Burren Perfumery where only natural and organic ingredients are used in production. It’s the oldest working perfumery in Ireland! Along the way, we stop at a farm visit the animals and take a hands-on lesson in traditional bread and scone baking. A truly Irish day.

Overnight: Ballyvaughan | Gregans Castle
Room Type: x1 Junior Suite
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 22 - Friday 28th February - Depart

This morning, your guide will drop you at the airport and its time to head home. We hope your time in Ireland has been memorable and we look forward to welcoming you to our shores once again.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 22 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide
    • In England from Day 6-8 and Day 11-12
    • In Ireland from Day 14 to Day 22 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days
  • Airport Transfer on Arrival Day, includes Meet & Greet
  • Airport Transfer on Departure Day
  • Private transfer to the train station in Bath
  • Private transfer from London to Oxford
  • All Ferry Travel Included in the Itinerary
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Private Mini Cooper Tour of London
    • Foodie Tour of Borough Market or Soho
    • E-bike hire in the Cotswolds
    • Private walking tour in Oxford
    • Private walking tour in Bath
    • Entry fees as per interest during their stay
    • Private walking tour in Dublin
    • Entry to The Rock of Cashel
    • Private E-Bike tour in Killarney National Park
    • Private Falconry experience in Dingle
    • Entry to The Cliffs of Moher
    • Private 4×4 experience on Inis Mor
    • Private Bread Baking and Farm Tour
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide
Notes Read More
  • All suggested accommodations and services are subject to availability at the time of booking.
  • A 20% deposit is required before any accommodation and services will be confirmed.
  • This quote is valid for 14 days from the date quoted, after this time pricing may be subject to revision.
  • Activities are only private if so specified
Optional Upgrades Read More
  • Room Upgrades are available in some locations, subject to availability. Pricing on request.
Pricing Read More

Pricing:

The NET price for this itinerary, based on 2 clients on a twin-share basis, and including a £12 per person conservation contribution is:

  • Scotland and England – £12,850 GBP per person
  • Ireland – € 10,156 EUR per person

Conservation ContributionThis voluntary donation of £12 per person goes towards conservation projects in the locations we operate.  If you would like to opt out just let your trip designer know. Click here for more information.

Important Additional Information Read More
  • Ireland Pricing PDF General Info - PDF: View Now
Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.