Christian Tours

Christian Tours

Making Travel Dreams Come True Since 1977!

England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales

Including the Edinburgh Tattoo
 
 
Day 1

FLIGHT TO LONDON, ENGLAND:

We meet our Christian Tours’ tour director and transfer by motorcoach to the Charlotte airport, ready to board our overnight trans-Atlantic flight to London, England—anticipating an unforgettable journey.
Day 2

LONDON/BUCKINGHAM PALACE OPTIONAL TOUR:

Upon arrival in London, we meet our international guide and transfer to our hotel. Check in time will be late afternoon allowing you time to explore some of this remarkable city. You may choose to stay at the hotel or join our guide for an Optional tour to Buckingham Palace. You can explore the magnificent State Rooms which are only open to visitors for 10 weeks each summer. (Optional tour: $95.00 per person).
Day 3

LONDON SIGHTSEEING:

Today on our guided tour of London we discover what makes London the most visited city in the world. Our London tour will take us on a nonstop procession of recognizable landmarks, such as the House of Parliament, Big Ben Clock Tower, Westminster Abbey, Trafalgar Square, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the Tower of London. Afterwards, you may continue exploring London, shopping, or sightseeing at leisure. (B)
Day 4

SALISBURY • STONEHENGE • ROMAN BATHS:

We depart London and travel to Salisbury Plain in Wiltshire, England. We visit the Neolithic stone circle of Stonehenge, one of the most famous wonders of the world. As we marvel at this mysterious site, we consider the age-old question of how and why hundreds of people transported five ton stones from all over the South of England and Wales to create a monument that has no obvious function. Our journey continues as we travel to the historical city of Bath. Here we visit the Roman Baths, which are some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. We wander through this vast leisure complex just as the Romans did over 2000 years ago. Built in 70 AD over hot springs, the Great Bath still receives over one million liters of hot water daily from the 12,000- year-old Kings Spring below. Later, we continue to Cardiff to check into our hotel and enjoy a delicious 3-course dinner. (B, D)
Day 5

CARDIFF • WEXFORD:

After breakfast, we set out on a scenic tour of Cardiff, the vibrant Welsh capital. Highlights include Cardiff Castle, a striking landmark towering over the historic city centre with its eclectic mix of architectural styles. We also visit Principality Stadium, an iconic sports and entertainment venue known for its retractable roof and electric atmosphere during rugby and concert events, and Llandaff Cathedral, one of Britain’s oldest Christian sites. A stroll through Bute Park offers a peaceful blend of historic buildings, lush urban woodlands, and views of the River Taff—the green heart of the city. Our tour continues to the revitalized Cardiff Bay, Europe’s largest waterfront development, where we see iconic attractions such as the red-brick Norwegian Church, the Doctor Who Experience, and the Welsh Millennium Centre, a hub of cultural life. Later, we board the ferry and cross the Irish Sea to Wexford, where we check into our hotel and enjoy the evening with dinner on our own. (B)
Day 6

WATERFORD • CORK • BLARNEY CASTLE • KILLARNEY:

Our first stop today is Waterford Crystal Visitor Centre which includes the Waterford Crystal retail store, exhibition and crystal installation areas, coffee shop and worldwide shipping facility. Our tour includes a unique factory tour which gives us an up-close insight into the centuries-old tradition of Waterford Crystal making. After the tour, browse the world’s most famous crystal in a lavish retail store, which houses the largest collection of Waterford Crystal found anywhere in the world. Later, we travel to Cork. Originally established in the 12th century as a trading city, Cork is now a thriving city of around 150,000 and home to one of Ireland’s most legendary attractions. Built in 1446, Blarney Castle is famous for its Blarney Stone—the Stone of Eloquence —believed to bestow the gift of eloquence on all who kiss it. The castle gardens are continually evolving, featuring highlights such as the Water Garden, Fern Garden, and Poison Garden. After traveling through the scenic countryside of County Kerry, we arrive in Killarney to check into our hotel. Tonight, we’ll enjoy an included 3-course dinner at the hotel. (B, D)
Day 7

RING OF KERRY EXCURSION • SHEEPDOG DEMONSTRATION:

Today is a great day for pictures! The “Ring of Kerry” is the most famous and scenic route in Ireland. We see spectacular scenery of the mountains, peat bogs, lakes, and magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. Leaving Killarney, we pass through Killorglin, famous for its Puck Fair, and then on to Glenbeigh, where the cliff road affords scenic views of the Dingle Peninsula and Dingle Bay. As we travel to Cahirciveen, we pass the birthplace of Ireland’s national hero, Daniel O’Connell. Our journey continues through the mountains to Molls Gap and Ladies View with superb views of the famous Lakes of Killarney. Set in the spectacular scenery of Molls Gap on the Ring of Kerry, Kissane Sheep Farm is a traditional, working sheep farm with approximately 1,000 mountain sheep and hundreds of lambs. The farm has been run by generations of the same family for the last 150 years. Enjoy sheep shearing demonstrations, bottle feed orphan (pet) lambs in season, marked mountain walks and a Puzzle Walk and Treasure Trail. Later this evening, we indulge in a delightful 3-course dinner at Quills Farmhouse, followed by an engaging farmyard tour and a traditional butter-making demonstration. Enjoy lively music and captivating Irish dance entertainment that bring the spirit of Ireland to life. (B, D)
Day 8

ROCK OF CASHEL • DUBLIN:

We start our morning with a visit to the Rock of Cashel, which towers over the town of Cashel and is possibly the most photographed site in Ireland. The impressive stone walls enclose a round tower, a cathedral, a twelfth century Romanesque chapel and high crosses. The Rock of Cashel has the most remarkable collections of Celtic art and medieval architecture to be anywhere in Europe. We continue our journey towards Dublin, a cosmopolitan, but laid-back city. After checking into our hotel, we have the evening at leisure and dinner on own. (B)
Day 9

DUBLIN • TRINITY COLLEGE • BOOK OF KELLS • THE MERRY PLOUGHBOY PUB OPTIONAL TOUR:

On our panoramic sightseeing tour, we experience Dublin’s most celebrated landmarks. We visit the historic Trinity College with admission (if available) to the magnificent Library and Book of Kells Exhibition, stroll the grounds of the impressive St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and admire the grandeur of Dublin Castle. We drive through elegant Georgian Dublin with its colorful doors and charming squares, see iconic landmarks along O’Connell Street and the River Liffey, and pause for a photo at the beloved Ha’penny Bridge—capturing the very essence of this vibrant city. This afternoon, we have the rest of the day at leisure to explore more cultural and historical attractions, stroll along scenic spots like Grafton Street or St. Stephen’s Green, or enjoy dining followed by a show at the Abbey Theatre. Optional, Evening Dinner and Entertainment at The Merry Ploughboy Pub - this lively performance features great Irish music, song, and dancing, with lots of fun interaction between the band and the audience. A must-see for anyone visiting the city. (Optional dinner show & transfers: $110.00 per person). (B)
Day 10

WALKING TOUR OF CHESTER • LIVERPOOL:

After breakfast, we begin our journey crossing the Irish Sea to Holyhead, Wales. After enjoying the magnificent scenery in Holyhead, we make our way towards Chester, England. Along the route, we drive through Snowdonia National Park, a mountainous region home to some of the highest peaks in the United Kingdom. Upon arriving in Chester, we enjoy a walking tour of this walled, medieval city located in the county of Cheshire. Founded as a Roman fortress in the 1st century, we take in the beautiful sandstone city walls, the ruins of a Roman amphitheater, and the impressive Chester Cathedral. We stroll along the unique Chester Rows, a rare twolevel shopping gallery, and visit key landmarks including the historic Town Hall, Eastgate with its famous Eastgate Clock, and the scenic River Dee. The tightly packed streets filled with distinctive black and white half-gabled houses, traditional tea houses, and pubs vividly evoke the charm of Tudor England. Later, we arrive in Liverpool where we overnight, unwind, and enjoy a 3-course dinner. (B, D)
Day 11

LAKE DISTRICT • GRETNA GREEN • EDINBURGH:

We travel to Lake District, famous for its lakes, forests and mountains, and its association with William Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter and John Ruskin. We stop at Grasmere to view the grave of William Wordsworth at St. Oswald’s Church. We continue across the Scottish border to visit Gretna Green, historically the fi rst village in Scotland, with admission to the famous Blacksmith Shop—a romantic landmark where countless couples have eloped to wed over the centuries, making it one of Scotland’s most cherished destinations. After a day of exploring, we make our way to our hotel in Edinburgh, where we enjoy a relaxing evening at leisure. (B)
Day 12

EDINBURGH • EDINBURGH CASTLE • TATTOO:

This morning, we enjoy a scenic guided tour of Edinburgh, including a visit to the world famous Edinburgh Castle. Perched high on Castle Rock, this historic stronghold has dominated the skyline for more than 3,000 years and houses Scotland’s Crown Jewels and the legendary Stone of Scone. From its commanding views to its ancient halls, Edinburgh Castle stands as one of Scotland’s most iconic landmarks. Our city tour may include Holyrood Palace, the offi cial residence of the monarch in Scotland; the historic Royal Mile; elegant Princes Street Gardens; and Calton Hill, offering spectacular panoramic views. We also take in the Georgian elegance of the New Town, the Scott Monument, and the lively Grassmarket area. This evening, we prepare for a night to remember at the world renowned Edinburgh Tattoo, an unforgettable display of music, dance, and military precision set against the dramatic backdrop of Edinburgh Castle. (B)
Day 13

ALNWICH • YORK:

Today we visit the medieval market town of Alnwick to see Alnwick Castle and the 83-foot tall Tenantry Column, topped by the Percy Lion. En route to York, we view magnifi cent scenery as we cross the Tyne at Newcastle. Upon arrival, we enjoy a walking tour of York, a city founded by the Romans in 71 AD. York’s pivotal role in English history is showcased throughout this well-preserved city. We walk along the medieval city walls, visit the ruins of the 11th-century St. Mary’s Abbey, and marvel at the exterior of the imposing York Minster, one of the largest and most magnifi cent Gothic cathedrals in Europe. Our tour also takes us through the city centre’s maze of half-timbered houses and charmingly named narrow lanes such as The Shambles and Whip-ma-Whop-ma- Gate. We explore the historic Clifford’s Tower, a medieval fortress offering panoramic views, and see the Merchant Adventurers’ Hall, a beautifully preserved medieval guildhall. We overnight in York to enjoy the rest of the day in this historic city. (B)
Day 14

STRATFORD-UPON-AVON:

This morning, we visit Stratford-upon- Avon, the charming market town where William Shakespeare was born. We explore his distinctive 16th-century halftimbered birthplace, view fascinating exhibits, and enjoy a photo stop at Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Gardens. Anne Hathaway was Shakespeare’s wife, and her charming thatched cottage offers a glimpse into Tudor life and their early years together. Later, we head to our hotel in a quiet part of Stratford, just a short walk from the town centre and major Shakespeare attractions. Here, we relax and enjoy a delicious dinner to end the day. (B, D)
Day 15

BLADON • OXFORD • LONDON:

Today, we journey towards London with memorable stops along the way. We pause at St. Martin’s Churchyard in Bladon to pay our respects at the grave of Sir Winston Churchill. Then, we explore the grandeur of Christchurch College, one of the University of Oxford’s most historic and beautiful colleges. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure— perfect for discovering London at your own pace. (B)
Day 16

DEPART LONDON:

Our incredible and memorable tour concludes as we board our flight home to America, carrying unforgettable memories of this remarkable journey. (B)

Tour arranged by: Operation Europe & Christian Tours

England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales
Departure Dates
16 Days
Click on the date below you want to book:
(Pricing Per Person)
DoubleTripleQuadSingle
$6695$CALL$N/A$8595
AIRFARE
(from Charlotte, NC)
July 31 - $1255
MEALS INCLUDED
Breakfasts: 14
Dinners: 5
Passport Required.
Passport Required.
EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT
2% discount with deposit or
5% discount with full payment
by cash or check
until MARCH 10, 2026
for the JULY 31, 2026 departure!
Activity Level: 5
Easy
Strenuous