Ireland + Scotland + London Trip Details

Introduction

Welcome to Ireland & the UK!

Year-round rainfall gives these nations some of the greenest, most beautiful scenery you will ever see.

The Irish countryside is home to castles, majestic cliffs, rich culture, & lush green scenery. Enjoy live Irish music, have a pint of Guinness, and learn about Ireland's history as you visit the best places this small island country has to offer.

Scotland is the northernmost country in the United Kingdom, rich in history and tradition over the last 9,500 years. Hike through the mind-blowing landscapes of the Scottish highlands where films like Harry Potter & Braveheart were filmed.

London, the capital of the United Kingdom, offers something for everyone. With countless world-class attractions, you'll surely be planning your next visit before you leave.

Duration: 12 days, 11 nights

Start: Dublin International Airport (DUB) -- Dublin, Ireland
To ensure included transportation: plan to arrive before 7:00 am on Day 1.

Finish: London City Center (several airports to choose from)
Plan to depart at anytime on Day 12. Travelers are responsible for their own transportation to the airport of their choice.

Airfare booking details will be sent after registration-–please wait to book your flight until you receive further instructions.

What's Included

  • 12 days / 11 nights shared accommodations in boutique hotels and guesthouses
  • 12 breakfasts, 1 lunch, & 7 dinners
  • Domestic flight from Dublin to Edinburgh
  • Passenger train from Edinburgh to London King's Cross
  • Scenic cliff walk in Howth
  • Visit The Rock of Cashel
  • Historical cycling tour of Kilkenny
  • Visit the awe-inspiring Cliffs of Moher
  • Walking tours of Kilkenny, Galway & Dublin
  • Hike The Lost Valley in the Scottish Highlands
  • Visit Glenflinnan
  • Hike to Steall Falls
  • Experience the Scottish Highland town of Fort William
  • Walking tour of Edinburgh
  • Authentic Irish & Scottish cultural experiences
  • Private airport pick-up upon arrival
  • Under30Experiences Trip Leader
  • Personal recommendations for optional activities
  • The chance to meet some kick-ass people
  • Access to the Under30Experiences community
  • Taxes always included, never hidden fees, & NO blackout dates

Travelers are responsible for international airfare to Dublin and from London.
Cabs and other public transportation are not included unless specified in the itinerary.  

Highlights

  • Explore three lively Irish cities and learn some Gaelic words!
  • Enjoy pints in local pubs, listen to live Irish music, & chat with the locals.
  • Experience Dublin's nightlife.
  • Be blown away by the beauty of the West Highlands in Scotland and see Britain's highest mountain--Ben Nevis!
  • Hike the mind-blowing landscapes of the Scottish Highlands and learn about "Leave No Trace" with our mountain guide.
  • Explore the dynamic city of Edinburgh and get some Haggis!
  • Experience London like a local!

Is this Trip for You?

Do you want a mix of small towns, big cities, and some of the most beautiful hikes you'll ever experience? Then this trip is for you!

Harry Potter fans are also in luck. Visit the inspiration for Hogwarts and the wizarding world as you get lost in knock-turn alleys and incredible landscapes.

This trip includes some visits of historical monuments but also active adventures such as cycling and hiking. The hikes are can be challenging and an active lifestyle would be helpful.

There are a few long drives on this trip but this will be the opportunity to enjoy the scenery and get to know your group.

Weather can be very rainy in Ireland, Scotland, and London. Please pack accordingly to stay dry and warm.

-Age requirements: 21+
-Group size: 16 max, average 12
-Physical rating: Moderate. The most active part of the trip will be in Scotland. In Ireland the most physical part is the biking tour. In Scotland, be prepared to hike approximately 3 hours round trip - much of it uphill.

Travel Community

Travel connects us. Community keeps us connected.

Before your trip you'll have the opportunity to join a custom Facebook Group and connect with others members of your group. Many travelers meet in the airport, or for pre-trip drinks if they are from the same city. Others coordinate plans to stay in a country after their trip.

During your adventure, our Trip Leaders do their best to foster an open, supportive environment, where people feel safe to truly be themselves.

After your trip, you'll be an official U30X Alumni, and part of our larger online Travel Community where you'll have access to our network of thousands of past travelers. We are constantly hosting meetups that range from simple happy hours, to hikes, to outdoor movie nights.

More than 70% of our travelers come solo, but they all leave with friends.

Itinerary Disclaimer

Travel can be unpredictable. Our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience.

While it is our intention to adhere to the itinerary, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into it and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Meals

Breakfasts will be served at your hotel or guesthouse. Dinners will be enjoyed in local restaurants short walk away.

Sample Breakfast Menu:

  • Irish & Scottish breakfast (eggs, sausages, pudding, bacon, beans), salmon breakfast, pastries, cereals, yogurt, fruits, coffee, tea, juices.

Sample Dinner Menu:

  • Fresh seafood, steak, chicken, potatoes, and a dessert.

We do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions. Many meals can be modified for special requests and food allergies.

Transportation

You will be traveling by private ground transportation in Ireland and Scotland. Your trip also includes a domestic flight from Ireland to Scotland and a passenger train from Scotland to England.

There will be early departures on some days in order to optimize time.

  • Private ground transportation throughout Ireland and Scotland (Included)
  • Domestic flight from Dublin to Edinburgh (Included)
    Includes:
    (1) checked bag. The weight allowance is 20kg (44lbs). 
    (1) small carry-on of 7kg (15lbs) with a maximum size of height: 48cm (18.5"); width: 33cm (13"); length: 20cm (8").
    Each traveler is responsible for any fees associated with bags being overweight when checking in at the airport.
  • Public passenger train from Edinburgh to London (Included)

Cabs and other public transportation are not included unless specified in the itinerary.

Accommodation

You will be staying in shared boutique hotel rooms and guesthouses for the duration of your trip. Please be aware that rooms in Europe can be smaller and don’t always provide a minibar, air-conditioning or a safe.

Laundry is available at some hotels or guesthouses for an additional fee. Ask your Trip Leader for details.

Accommodations may vary but will be the same quality.
Solo travelers are paired with someone of the same gender.
Private room options are available upon request subject to hotel availability (for an extra charge).

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance with at least $200,000 USD in medical coverage is required to participate on our trips. This must include coverage for repatriation.

Please note that travel insurance covers trip related issues such as trip interruption, lost luggage, theft, etc. Travel medical insurance covers things like repatriation, medicine, ambulance rides, and hospital visits/stays. 

We strongly suggest that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Please ensure that all of the activities you plan on participating in are covered by your travel insurance.

Here are a few options for travel insurance that meet our minimum medical coverage requirements: Wanderwell, SafetyWing, and World Nomads. Some plans do not cover certain “high-risk” activities. Please make sure to read your plans coverage and make a selection based on your planned trip.

Wanderwell donates at least one percent of your insurance purchase to Explore Austin, a sustainable youth outdoor education program, via 1% for the Planet, selected by Under30Experiences.

We receive a fee if you purchase products through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.

We receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using our affiliate links. We do not represent World Nomads. This is not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

Cancellation Policy

With the increased concern surrounding the spread of the coronavirus we've implemented a temporary cancellation policy that you can reference on our FAQs.

-

Very Flexible

Give us at least 30 days notice and you can switch your trip for free, or we'll hold your Experience Credits for future use.

If you have an emergency cancellation that is less than 30 days before your trip, please refer to your travel insurance company as they may cover you for some expenses. We are not able to transfer trips or hold experience credits within 30 days of the trip because we have already secured reservations on your behalf.

Trip Leader Expectations

All Under30Experiences trips are accompanied by experienced Trip Leaders.

The goal of the Trip Leader is to facilitate an awesome experience and help our travelers have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are traveling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends.

You can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.

Packing List

Please be eco-friendly!
  • Bring a reusable water bottle to refill where clean water is available.
  • Use as little plastic as possible by declining straws and plastic bags at restaurants and when shopping.
  • Please avoid aerosol bug sprays as they negatively affect the environment.

We recommend using a travel backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage.

Below includes our staff picks of the best items on the market that we travel with!  All products selected are 3 ounces or less to comply with TSA carry-on size and organically inspired when possible.

Do not forget: Bring a three prong power adaptor to charge your electronics.

For the Hikes:

Some links on this page are affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you Under30Experiences will earn a small commission if you make a purchase.

Passport & Visas

Guidelines for U.S. Passport Holders

Make sure you have an updated passport with you. Your passport must be valid for 60 days after your trip. Under30Experiences recommends that your passport be valid for at least 6 months after your trip.  Please consult the U.S. Department of State with any more questions.

Make sure there is no damage to your passport. Conditions that may constitute damage requiring you to replace your passport include water damage, a significant tear, unofficial markings on the data page, missing or torn out visa pages, a hole punch, or other injuries.

Health & Insurance

The tap water in Ireland, Scotland, and England is safe to drink. Please bring a reusable water bottle and join us in our efforts to be environmentally friendly and keep these countries beautiful.

Please consult with your doctor before traveling in regards to physical activity and vaccinations.

There are no required vaccinations needed to enter into Europe however the CDC recommends routine inoculations.

More specific Health information for Travelers to Europe can be found at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Money & Currency

The official currency in Ireland is the Euro (EUR). The official currency in the UK is the Pound Sterling (GBP).

We suggest bringing GBP £150 and EU €150 (~USD $390) in cash to be used at establishments that do not accept credit card.”

This is not a total cash amount that you should expect to spend on your trip. Please consider your own spending habits for additional expenses such as snacks, souvenirs, and optional activities.

ATMs are available in the cities and towns we visit. Although you can withdraw Euros from any ATM in Ireland and Pounds from any ATM in Scotland/England, it's a good idea to come with some local currency just in case.

We recommend exchanging from USD to EUR and GBP at your local bank before arriving in Europe to make sure you have some local currency in case you have issues with your card when you arrive.

Remember to call your bank and credit card company and let them know you'll be traveling overseas.

For an up-to-date exchange rate, download the app XE.

Please be advised that US Dollar notes that are slightly torn, heavily marked, or faded may be difficult to exchange. It is best to bring notes in fairly good condition, in denominations lower than $100USD.

Safety & Security

Always carry a copy of your travel insurance, health insurance and passport with you. A photo of these items on your phone is also a good backup.

Keep your passport and any valuables locked in your hotel room.

Don’t leave valuables unattended.

US Citizens please consider registering with US State Department's “SMART Traveler Program” who can contact your family in case of emergency.

Weather

Weather in Ireland & Scotland can be unpredictable. The average temperature is a mild 50°F. While the weather can vary, it’s rarely extreme.

The Emerald Isle lives up to its nickname and you should expect plenty of rain but long bouts are rare.

Scotland has the coolest weather of any country in the United Kingdom throughout the year.

Generally, Scotland is cloudier than England. Over Scotland the mean annual temperature varies from 44 °F to 48 °F. Over England the mean annual temperature varies from about 47°F to 51 °F

Spring Months of March to May

  • Average high is 54°F
  • Average low is 43°F
  • April is considered particularly pleasant

Summer Months of June to September

  • Average high is 68°F
  • Average low is 50°F
  • July and August are the warmest months and get about 18 hours of daylight. During this time it stays light out until around 11:00 pm.

cultural information

Ireland or “Eire” in Irish is an island in the North Atlantic. The island is now divided between Northern Ireland which belongs to the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland in the south.

Ireland has a strong pub culture. Pubs are not only places where people drink but also places where people gather and meet friends, co-workers, neighbors.

Irish people are known for being very friendly and for loving their country.

Scottish culture is typically separated by the highlands and the lowlands of Scotland. Gaelic traditions are strongest in the north and premier urban cities embody the south.

Scotland's national dish is Haggis which contains sheep heart, liver and lungs.

Key Phrases in Irish

  • Ireland Forever -- Éirinn go Brách
  • Welcome -- Fáilte
  • A good time or fun -- Craic
  • Cheers -- Sláinte
  • People of Ireland -- Muintir na hÉireann
  • French fries -- Chips

Key Phrases in Scotland

  • Highland Cow -- Coo
  • Yes -- Aye
  • Mountain -- Ben
  • A little -- A wee bit
Tipping Customs

While tipping isn’t customary, it is certainly appreciated especially when you have received great service.  Be sure to tip in the local currency (Pound sterling) to ensure the recipient does not have to pay additional fees when exchanging.  Here are some common guidelines to follow:

  • Dining at a sit down restaurant = Add 10%-15% of your bill 
  • Taxi drivers = round up to the nearest euro
  • Tour guide (non U30X activity leaders)  =  Add 10% of what you paid for the tour 

Optional Activities

The activities below will be paid in Euros and Pounds. All amounts are approximate prices in US dollars.

Kilkenny
  • Hurling Experience: ~ USD $30
    Learn the prehistoric game of Hurling with a professional.
  • Dunmore Caves: ~ USD $6
    Visit the ancient Dunmore Caves.
  • Kilkenny Castle: ~ USD $10
    Take a tour of Medieval Kilkenny Castle.
  • Saint Canice's Cathedral: ~ USD $7
    Climb the Round Tower at Saint Canice's Cathedral for an incredible view of the city.
Galway
  • O’Connor’s Bar: Free
    Visit the famous pub where Ed Sheeran's Galway Girl music video was filmed.
  • Salthill Promenade: Free
    Take a scenic walk along Galway Bay.
  • Cupán Tae: Free
    Have a traditional Irish tea room experience.
Dublin
  • Guinness Storehouse: ~USD $20
    Learn the story of Ireland's most famous beer.
  • St Patrick’s Cathedral: ~USD 9$
    Visit the National Cathedral of the Chruch of Ireland
  • Trinity College & The Book of Kells: ~USD $15
    Walk through the historic college and see one of the most famous artifacts on display in Dublin
  • St. Stephen’s Green Park: Free
    Visit the historical park and garden in the city center.
  • Tour Dublin Castle: ~USD $15
    See what was once the seat of the British government's rule in Ireland.
  • Temple Bar
    Experience Dublin's nightlife in this popular area.
Fort William
  • West Highland Museum: Free
    Learn about the fascinating history of the West Highland people.
  • Ben Nevis Distillery: ~ USD $7
    Visit a whisky distillery nestled in the Scottish highlands.
  • Neptune Staircase: Free
Edinburgh
  • Arthur’s Seat: Free
    Hike this popular path for arguably the best views of Edinburgh.
  • Scott’s Monument: ~ USD $7
    Climb to the top of this historic monument in the middle of the city.
  • Calton Hill: Free
    Hike to the top of a hill in the middle of Edinburgh for great views of the city.
  • Underground City Tour: ~ USD $15
    Experience Edinburgh’s haunted history in an underground city tour.
London
  • State rooms of Buckingham Palace (open from July 20 - September 29, 2019 only): ~USD $31
    Visit the Queen's official London residence and a working royal palace. Tickets must be booked in advance.
  • Ride the London Eye: ~USD $34
    Ride Europe's tallest observation wheel.
  • London Tower: ~USD $31
    Visit this historic castle and home of the English crown jewels.
  • Eat at Borough Market
  • Explore Camden Market

While your Trip Leader will assist you with optional activities available, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of the Under30Experiences itinerary. We offer no guarantees on the safety or standard of the activity.

General Rules

Respect the people around you and the environment in which you’re traveling. This includes, but is not limited to fellow travelers, Trip Leaders, the local community, nature, wildlife, and yourself.

Do your best to keep yourself and fellow travelers out of harm’s way.

It’s important to obey local laws and customs while on our trips. This includes, but is not limited to wearing appropriate clothing while visiting certain communities, refraining from taking photos of people without asking, avoiding the use of illegal drugs, having weapons, and soliciting prostitution. If you’re not sure about something, take time to educate yourself, or ask.

Travel involves contact with new cultures. When confronted with a different way of living than you’re used to, do your best to understand that neither way is better or worse. They’re simply different ways of life.

Know your limits! This applies to physical ability, emotional space, social situations, and alcohol consumption. If you can’t participate in something, be upfront about it. If you need a break from people, take it. Stop drinking before you get too drunk.

Trip Leaders are working in the travelers’ best interest. If they say something or ask you not to do something it’s not because they’re tyrants, but because they want you to have a good time!

Lying or withholding information about any physical or mental condition that might affect your ability to participate in any of the activities may be grounds for removal from your trip with no refund.

Staying longer or arriving early?

Recommended Hotels & Hostels in Dublin (for those arriving early!)

Recommended Hotels & Hostels in London (for those staying later!)

Still need to book your flight?

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