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22-Day Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scottish Highlands and England Road-Trip: Dublin to London via Giants, Glens, Castles and Countryside

Viewed by 137 travelers

Day 1: Dublin arrival

Dublin, Ireland on September 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bewley's Grafton Street

Classic Dublin café on Grafton Street serving hearty breakfasts and excellent coffee; a great start before walking the city. Check opening times (typically 8:00am).
EUR12, 1h0m

9:30am

Trinity College & Book of Kells

See the illuminated Book of Kells and walk the historic Long Room — an essential Dublin cultural stop; ticketed and typically opens 9:30am so prebook to avoid lines.
EUR18, 1h15m

11:00am

St. Stephen's Green and Grafton Street walk

Short stroll through the green and lively shopping streets to feel the city's vibe and street performers.
EUR0, 45m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Woollen Mills or Fallon & Byrne

Traditional modern-Irish lunch at The Woollen Mills or market-style choices at Fallon & Byrne; good spot to sample Irish seafood or stew.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Dublin Castle & Chester Beatty Library

Historic castle complex and the excellent Chester Beatty collections; Castle area normally open afternoons—check visitor hours (castle typically 9:45–17:45).
EUR8, 1h15m

4:00pm

Guinness Storehouse (self-guided)

Interactive brewery experience ending with a pint in the Gravity Bar and panoramic city views; opens ~9:30 and closes later (often ~7pm) but confirm seasonal hours.
EUR30, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Brazen Head or Kehoe's

Dine in Ireland's oldest pub (Brazen Head) for classic pub fare and live music, or try Kehoe's for a cozy local atmosphere.
EUR25, 1h30m

Day 2: Wicklow & Kilkenny

Kilkenny, Ireland on September 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel / local café

Light breakfast before heading south into County Wicklow; many cafés open by 8am.
EUR8, 45m

9:00am

Powerscourt Estate & Gardens (via Wicklow Mountains)

Beautiful landscaped gardens and waterfall near Enniskerry; gardens typically open around 9:30–17:30—check seasonal times.
EUR10, 1h30m

11:30am

Glendalough Monastic Site

Early medieval monastic site set in a glacial valley; visitor centre has interpretive displays and opens mid-morning—walking the lakes is the highlight.
EUR5, 1h15m

1:30pm

Lunch at a café in Tinahely or Kilkenny arrival

Stop for a countryside lunch en route, or head straight to Kilkenny for dining in town when you arrive in the afternoon.
EUR18, 1h0m

3:30pm

Kilkenny Castle & Medieval Quarter

Explore the restored Kilkenny Castle and stroll the medieval lanes and craft shops; castle typically open 9:30–17:00 but verify seasonal hours.
EUR10, 1h15m

7:30pm

Dinner at Kyteler's Inn

Atmospheric medieval-style inn with local dishes and live music nights—great for authentic ambiance in Kilkenny.
EUR25, 1h30m

Day 3: Waterford & Cork

Cork, Ireland on September 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Kilkenny

Quick breakfast before driving southeast to Waterford to see the crystal workshop and history of Viking Waterford.
EUR10, 45m

10:00am

House of Waterford Crystal

Guided demonstrations of crystal cutting and showroom; tours often start mid-morning—check availability and prebook popular slots.
EUR12, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch in Waterford or en route

Try a riverside café or gastropub for fresh fish or hearty Irish dishes before continuing to Cork.
EUR18, 1h0m

3:30pm

Blarney Castle (optional) and Blarney Stone

Climb the castle and kiss the Blarney Stone for the 'gift of gab'—site typically open 9:00–17:00; the gardens are also extensive and merit a walk.
EUR20, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at English Market / Market Lane in Cork

Sample Cork specialties at the historic English Market or dine at Market Lane for seasonal Irish produce and seafood.
EUR30, 1h30m

Day 4: Killarney & Ring of Kerry

Killarney, Ireland on September 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Cork

Fuel up for a scenic drive west to Killarney; many bakeries open early for quick takeaway options.
EUR8, 30m

10:30am

Muckross House & Killarney National Park

Victorian mansion set in Killarney National Park with gardens and nearby lakes; visitor centre and house visits usually open from 10:00—check times.
EUR10, 1h15m

1:00pm

Lunch in Killarney Town

Try local seafood or Irish stew at a town restaurant before starting a partial Ring of Kerry drive or guided loop.
EUR20, 1h0m

2:30pm

Drive a section of the Ring of Kerry

Scenic coastal drives, pull-ins for lakes, ocean views and viewpoints like Ladies View—full loop takes several hours so pick highlights based on time and weather.
EUR0, 3h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Laurels or a local gastropub

Enjoy hearty Irish cooking or modern takes on local produce in Killarney's lively dining scene.
EUR28, 1h30m

Day 5: Dingle Peninsula

Dingle, Ireland on September 9, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast to allow a full day exploring the Dingle Peninsula's dramatic coast and heritage sites.
EUR8, 30m

9:30am

Slea Head Drive & scenic stops

One of Ireland's most scenic loops with cliffside views, early Christian sites and photo opportunities; drive at relaxed pace and stop at pullouts.
EUR0, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch in Dingle town (seafood)

Dingle is famous for fresh seafood; choose a harbour-side restaurant for locally-caught fish and shellfish.
EUR22, 1h0m

2:30pm

Dingle Boat Tour (dolphin watching)

Popular boat trips to see Fungie (if present) and local wildlife — tours typically run mid-morning and mid-afternoon and should be booked in advance.
EUR25, 1h15m

6:30pm

Drive north toward Doolin / Cliffs of Moher area

Scenic drive across the Shannon Estuary heading toward County Clare for the Cliffs area; overnight in Doolin for easy access next day.
EUR0, 2h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at a Doolin pub

Relax with traditional music and simple plates in a friendly pub — Doolin is a live-music hotspot.
EUR20, 1h30m

Day 6: Cliffs of Moher & The Burren

Doolin / County Clare, Ireland on September 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Doolin

Casual breakfast; arrive early to avoid crowds at the cliffs.
EUR8, 30m

9:30am

Cliffs of Moher Visitor Centre and cliff walk

Iconic sea cliffs with dramatic views and an interpretive visitor centre; centre and walking paths typically open from around 9:00—check weather and tides for safety.
EUR8, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch in Doolin or Lahinch

Stop in nearby coastal towns for lunch and a stroll on the beach before heading to Galway.
EUR18, 1h0m

2:30pm

Drive to Galway via The Burren

Explore lunar-like landscapes of The Burren en route to Galway, with small stops for photos and short walks.
EUR0, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner in Galway (Quay Street)

Enjoy lively Quay Street with options from casual to fine dining — fresh Atlantic seafood is recommended.
EUR25, 1h30m

Day 7: Galway & Connemara

Galway, Ireland on September 11, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Ard Bia at Nimmos

Popular Galway eatery serving creative Irish breakfasts near the Spanish Arch; plan for a short wait at peak times.
EUR12, 45m

9:45am

Day trip to Connemara & Kylemore Abbey

Scenic drive into Connemara visiting Kylemore Abbey and gardens; the abbey typically opens around 9:30–17:30—prebook if you want a guided tour.
EUR12, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch in Clifden

Stop in Clifden for a relaxed lunch and a walk about the small town with mountain-backdrop views.
EUR18, 1h0m

5:30pm

Return to Galway & explore Latin Quarter

Evening stroll through Galway's lively Latin Quarter with shops, street performers and cafés.
EUR0, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Ard Bia or An Púcán

Enjoy modern Irish cuisine or a lively pub meal; Galway has a great food-and-music scene.
EUR30, 1h30m

Day 8: Northwest to Sligo

Sligo, Ireland on September 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Galway

Light breakfast before a scenic drive north toward County Sligo and the wild Atlantic landscapes.
EUR8, 30m

10:30am

Drive & short stops around Westport / Achill (optional)

Optional coastal detours to Westport or Achill Island for dramatic Atlantic scenery and short cliff walks; open access year-round but check ferry/info points for Achill.
EUR0, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch in Westport or Sligo on arrival

Try a modern café in Westport or seafood/bistro options in Sligo town.
EUR18, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Sligo sights (Benbulben views & Yeats sites)

See Benbulben from viewpoints and the Yeats memorial sites; outdoor walking access is typically unrestricted but weather-dependent.
EUR0, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Eala Bhan or local Sligo restaurant

Sligo has strong seafood and modern Irish options—dine at a riverside bistro or gastropub.
EUR25, 1h30m

Day 9: Donegal & Derry

Derry / Londonderry, Northern Ireland on September 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Sligo

Early breakfast before heading northeast toward Donegal and Derry.
EUR8, 30m

10:30am

Slieve League cliffs or Glenveagh National Park (optional detour)

Choose dramatic Slieve League sea cliffs (steep but spectacular) or Glenveagh National Park with castle and gardens; check visitor opening times and seasonal services.
EUR8, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch in Donegal town or en route

Sample local seafood or café fare before heading to Derry.
EUR15, 1h0m

4:00pm

Explore Derry's Walled City & Guildhall

Walk the intact 17th-century city walls and visit the Guildhall for history and stained glass; many attractions open into the afternoon—check times for the Guildhall and visitor centre.
GBP6, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Browns in Town or local pub

Enjoy modern Irish cuisine or hearty pub fare in Derry's lively centre.
GBP20, 1h30m

Day 10: Antrim Coast & Belfast

Belfast, Northern Ireland on September 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast in Derry

Early breakfast before driving along the stunning Causeway Coastal Route toward the Giant's Causeway.
GBP7, 30m

10:00am

Giant's Causeway Visitor Centre

Walk the UNESCO-listed basalt columns and use the excellent visitor centre exhibits; centre hours often around 9:30–17:30—purchase parking/entry in advance if possible.
GBP14, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Bushmills or coastal café

Stop near the famous Bushmills Distillery or a seaside café for a hearty lunch before exploring more of the coast.
GBP15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and Dunluce Castle (photo stop)

Optional short walk to Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge (seasonal opening) and dramatic Dunluce Castle ruins — timings vary so check seasonal hours.
GBP10, 1h30m

5:00pm

Drive to Belfast & check into hotel

Arrive in Belfast for an evening in the city (about 1–1.5 hours from the Causeway).
GBP0, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Mourne Seafood Bar or The Crown Liquor Saloon

Enjoy fresh local seafood or experience a famous Victorian pub with ornate interiors.
GBP30, 1h30m

Day 11: Fly to Edinburgh

Edinburgh, Scotland on September 15, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast in Belfast

Early breakfast before your short flight to Edinburgh; allow time for airport check-in (regional flights often 45–60 minutes).
GBP8, 30m

9:00am

Flight Belfast to Edinburgh

Short flight (approx 1 hour) — book early for best fares and allow for travel to/from airports; estimate costs and times vary, check carriers and airport transport.
GBP60, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch on the Royal Mile

Arrive in central Edinburgh and have lunch on the historic Royal Mile to start exploring the old town.
GBP18, 1h0m

1:30pm

Edinburgh Castle

Dominant fortress overlooking the city with museums and crown jewels; usually open 9:30–17:00 but confirm seasonal hours and prebook a ticket.
GBP20, 1h30m

3:30pm

Walk the Royal Mile & Grassmarket

Explore historic closes, shops and views between the Castle and Holyrood; great for souvenir shopping and people-watching.
GBP0, 1h15m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Witchery or a gastropub

Treat yourself to atmospheric dining near the castle (reservations recommended) or choose a lively pub for comfort food.
GBP35, 1h30m

Day 12: Highlands Tour: Glencoe & Loch Lomond

Edinburgh (day-tour), Scotland on September 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast in Edinburgh

Early breakfast, then depart for a full-day guided Highlands coach tour—book a reputable operator which departs early from the city.
GBP12, 30m

8:30am

Depart on guided tour to Glencoe & Loch Lomond

Full-day tour visiting scenic Glencoe valleys, Loch Lomond viewpoints and historic sites; most tours run 8:30–18:00 so prebook and check pick-up location.
GBP50, 9h0m

1:00pm

Lunch stop in a Highland village (included or pay-as-you-go)

Typical coach tours stop in small villages or visitor centres—pack snacks if you prefer a specific choice.
GBP15, 45m

6:30pm

Return to Edinburgh & relax

Evening free to enjoy the city after a long scenic day; book in advance for busy season tours.
GBP0, 30m

8:00pm

Dinner at a local pub or restaurant (e.g., Howies)

Comforting Scottish fare—try haggis, neeps and tatties or modern seafood fare.
GBP25, 1h30m

Day 13: Highlands Tour: Loch Ness & Inverness

Edinburgh (day-tour), Scotland on September 17, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast & early pickup

Full-day tour to Loch Ness and the Great Glen; book a tour that includes Urquhart Castle and a cruise on Loch Ness if desired.
GBP12, 30m

8:00am

Depart on Loch Ness/Highlands coach tour

Drive north through Cairngorm foothills to Loch Ness with stops for scenery, castles and the possibility of a short boat cruise — tours often last all day (approx 10–12 hours).
GBP65, 10h0m

1:30pm

Urquhart Castle and optional Loch Ness cruise

Historic castle overlooking Loch Ness; visitor hours vary but many tours include a guided stop and optional boat trip (book ahead for cruises).
GBP12, 1h30m

8:30pm

Return to Edinburgh & dinner

Late return — relax at a neighbourhood restaurant and rest after a long day of Highland highlights.
GBP20, 1h15m

Day 14: Highlands Tour: Isle of Skye highlights (long day)

Edinburgh (day-tour), Scotland on September 18, 2025

6:30am

Very early breakfast & depart

Isle of Skye day tours are long (often 14+ hours) but offer iconic scenery—book a reputable operator and be prepared for an all-day excursion.
GBP12, 30m

7:30am

Full-day Isle of Skye coach tour (via Glencoe/Skye Bridge)

Visit highlights such as the Quiraing, Old Man of Storr views, and Eilean Donan Castle en route; tours typically return late in the evening—confirm exact itinerary and return time.
GBP85, 14h0m

1:00pm

Lunch stop on Skye or en route

Most tours include a village stop; facilities are limited so bring snacks if you prefer specific dietary choices.
GBP15, 45m

10:00pm

Late return to Edinburgh

Arrive back tired but having seen some of Scotland's most dramatic landscapes; rest up for the southbound drive tomorrow.
GBP0, 30m

Day 15: Drive to Newcastle

Newcastle upon Tyne, England on September 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast & collect rental car

Pick up a pre-booked rental car in Edinburgh for your onward driving route; check driving regulations and insurance for UK travel.
GBP0, 30m

9:30am

Drive Edinburgh to Newcastle (approx 2.5–3h)

Scenic drive south along the A1/M8 and A1(M) into northeast England; allow time for stops and traffic.
GBP0, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Newcastle Quayside

Waterfront dining with views of the bridges crossing the River Tyne; a good spot to sample northern English cuisine.
GBP18, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Newcastle Castle & Quayside walk

Historic castle keep in the city centre and a scenic walk along the Tyne with Millennium Bridge views; many attractions open afternoons but check times on arrival.
GBP8, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at a local gastropub (e.g., The Patricia)

Enjoy regional beers and a hearty meal in a friendly Northumbrian pub setting.
GBP22, 1h30m

Day 16: Drive to Liverpool

Liverpool, England on September 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Newcastle

Fuel up before a longer drive southwest to Liverpool; consider an early start to maximize afternoon sightseeing.
GBP8, 30m

10:30am

Drive Newcastle to Liverpool (approx 3.5–4h)

Scenic motorway drive across northern England—plan a coffee/rest stop en route.
GBP0, 4h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Albert Dock

Diverse dining options at the redeveloped Albert Dock with waterfront views; great base for Beatles-related museums and galleries.
GBP18, 1h0m

3:30pm

The Beatles Story & Maritime Museum

Explore Liverpool's maritime history and the Beatles Story exhibition at Albert Dock—check opening hours (often 10:00–17:00) and prebook popular exhibits.
GBP18, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at a local bistro or Liverpool pub (e.g., The Quarter)

Enjoy liverpudlian dishes or modern British plates in the city centre.
GBP22, 1h30m

Day 17: Wales stop & Cotswolds transfer

Cotswolds, England on September 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Liverpool

Early breakfast before a coastal or North Wales detour; choose Conwy Castle for a quick Welsh castle stop if you prefer a northern Wales route.
GBP8, 30m

10:30am

Conwy Castle (North Wales) or short coastal visit

Medieval castle with walls and harbour views—open times often morning to mid-afternoon so check before visiting; quick photo stop fits well en route south.
GBP10, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch in Conwy or en-route service area

Quick pub lunch or café depending on timing; enjoy Welsh coastal scenery if you detour briefly.
GBP12, 1h0m

2:00pm

Drive Conwy/Liverpool area to the Cotswolds (long drive ~4–5h)

Cross central England southbound to reach the Cotswolds — plan for a longer driving day with scenic villages as reward on arrival.
GBP0, 5h0m

7:30pm

Dinner in a Cotswold village (Bourton-on-the-Water or Stow-on-the-Wold)

Arrive in the quintessential Cotswolds and dine in a cosy inn; local produce and traditional roasts are highlights.
GBP25, 1h30m

Day 18: Cotswolds & Bath

Bath, England on September 22, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast in Cotswolds village

Enjoy a leisurely village breakfast before exploring honey-stone villages like Bibury or Bourton-on-the-Water.
GBP10, 45m

10:00am

Explore Cotswold villages (Bourton, Bibury, Stow-on-the-Wold)

Drive between iconic villages for short walks, photo stops and tea rooms—most are easy to visit on foot with open shops and tea rooms during the day.
GBP0, 2h30m

1:00pm

Lunch en route to Bath

Stop at a countryside pub for a traditional Sunday roast (if applicable) or light lunch before arriving in Bath.
GBP18, 1h0m

3:00pm

Roman Baths & Bath Abbey

World-class Roman Baths museum and the adjacent Bath Abbey — Roman Baths typically open 9:00–17:00 so plan arrival accordingly and prebook tickets to avoid queues.
GBP23, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner in Bath (Sally Lunn's or The Circus Restaurant)

Sample historic Bath buns or refined modern British cuisine in a Georgian setting.
GBP30, 1h30m

Day 19: Stonehenge & Windsor

Windsor, England on September 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast in Bath

Early breakfast to reach Stonehenge before peak crowds; visitor centre opens around 9:00—prebook timed-entry tickets.
GBP8, 30m

10:00am

Stonehenge Visitor Centre & monument

Explore the Neolithic monument and new exhibition; access to the stone circle is via timed entry—book ahead and check shuttle/bus schedule from the visitor centre.
GBP23, 1h30m

12:30pm

Lunch near Stonehenge or on the drive to Windsor

Stop for a pub lunch en route—many country pubs serve classic British dishes and sandwiches.
GBP15, 1h0m

3:00pm

Arrive Windsor — Windsor Castle visit (if time allows)

Historic royal residence with State Apartments and St George's Chapel; check opening times (often mid-morning to afternoon) and book tickets for timed entry where required.
GBP30, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner in Windsor

Dine near the castle with choices from gastropubs to riverside restaurants—enjoy classic British cuisine before driving into London or staying near Windsor.
GBP28, 1h30m

Day 20: Arrive London

London, England on September 24, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast & drive to London (approx 1–1.5h from Windsor)

Short morning drive into London—plan parking or a hotel with parking/transfer to central London; consider O/D congestion zones where applicable.
GBP8, 1h0m

10:30am

Check-in & drop bags (central London hotel)

Get oriented in your neighbourhood and plan the afternoon walking route—many central hotels allow luggage drop if early check-in isn't possible.
GBP0, 30m

12:00pm

Lunch near Covent Garden or South Bank

Sample London street-food markets or a classic British café; great to start exploring central sights on foot.
GBP18, 1h0m

1:30pm

Westminster walk: Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey (exterior/optional interior)

See London's iconic political and religious landmarks; Westminster Abbey opening times vary, prebook tours if you want to enter.
GBP0, 1h30m

4:00pm

Walk along the South Bank to the London Eye / Tate Modern area

Leisurely riverside stroll with great skyline views—Tate Modern and London Eye are optional visit points (check opening hours and ticketing).
GBP0, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner in Covent Garden or Soho

Enjoy a wide choice of international and British restaurants in London's lively theatre district—book ahead for popular spots.
GBP30, 1h30m

Day 21: London highlights

London, England on September 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at a local café

Start the day in a neighbourhood café—many open from 7–8am in central London.
GBP8, 30m

9:00am

Tower of London & Tower Bridge

Tour the Tower to see the Crown Jewels and medieval history—arrive early and prebook timed tickets; Tower of London usually opens around 9:00.
GBP30, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Borough Market

Explore a world of food stalls and artisanal producers; ideal for lunch and sampling a range of flavours.
GBP15, 1h0m

2:00pm

British Museum or National Gallery

Choose based on interest—both have world-class collections and free entry, but ticketed special exhibitions may have fees; check opening times (often 10:00–17:30/18:00).
GBP0, 2h0m

7:30pm

West End show & dinner

Book a West End theatre performance with a pre-show dinner in Soho or Covent Garden—shows usually start ~7:30–8:00pm and need advance tickets.
GBP45, 3h0m

Day 22: More London & departure prep

London, England on September 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local market

Final London morning to pack and have a leisurely breakfast before your last full day of sightseeing or departure prep.
GBP8, 30m

9:30am

Buckingham Palace & St James's Park

Walk through St James's Park to Buckingham Palace—arrive in time for the Changing of the Guard if scheduled (check the official schedule as it's seasonal and subject to change).
GBP0, 1h15m

12:30pm

Lunch in Marylebone or Knightsbridge

Enjoy a relaxed last meal in London near your hotel—options range from upscale cafés to international bistros.
GBP20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Optional Victoria & Albert Museum or shopping on Oxford Street / Harrods

Choose a final museum visit (V&A) or shopping trip—museums often close around 17:30–18:00 so plan timing accordingly.
GBP0, 2h0m

6:30pm

Farewell dinner in London

Enjoy a final celebratory dinner at a recommended spot (book in advance) and finalize transport arrangements for departure.
GBP40, 1h30m
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