Coach tours

Traveling through Ireland and the UK in a modern coach makes group travel a breeze. With native language guides to help along the way creating a seamless experience for your guests. You won't find a better partner than us here at Abbey to plan your next coach tour.

Coach Tours Tailored for You

English

German

French

Spanish

Italian

Introduction to coach tours

Exploring Ireland and the UK can be as easy as selecting when you want to go. With our Coach tours, all the planning and arranging will be done so you can sit back and enjoy. Offered in a variety of languages, you will not only be taken to all of the must-see sights but hear about them in your native language. This experience helps to ensure that your guests will enjoy their holiday to the fullest extent. Abbey runs Guaranteed Departure tours which help you give your clients assurance that they will soon be on their way to their dream destination.

SAMPLE ITINERARIES

A sneak peek of our tours

Explore a selection of sample coach tours across Ireland and the UK, thoughtfully designed to offer a well pace and carefully planned itineraries. Travel in comfort as you journey through each destination, taking in the rich culture, iconic landmarks, and breathtaking scenery along the way.

Explore England

-> Southern England relaxed

Day 1

Welcome to England - Windsor Castle - Bristol

Individual arrival in London and meeting with your tour guide at London Heathrow in the morning. Your first stop will be at one of the most famous addresses in the country: Windsor Castle is the largest and oldest inhabited castle in the world and one of the official residences of His Majesty King Charles III. The castle embodies 900 years of British history and is situated on over 10 hectares of grounds. Wander through the magnificent walls or visit the castle's own St. George's Chapel, where several members of the Royal Family have been married. In the late afternoon, you will arrive in Bristol, your accommodation for the night.

Dinner and overnight stay in Bristol.

Day 2

Bristol – Buckfast Abbey – Dartmoor – Newquay

Today you will visit Buckfast Abbey, one of the few remaining active monasteries in Great Britain. After the abbey was destroyed during the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the ruins were restored in 1882 by exiled Benedictine monks from France and continue to impress visitors today. Afterwards, you will travel through the famous and infamous Dartmoor. The landscape is characterized by ruggedly romantic hills and vast moorlands. The frequent fog makes Dartmoor appear quite gloomy and provides fodder for numerous ghost stories. Here you will enjoy a typical English cream tea. Scones, small sweet pastries, are spread with clotted cream and strawberry jam and served with a freshly brewed cup of tea or coffee: Divine! After arriving at your hotel in Cornwall, you can take a walk along the cliffs on your own.

Dinner and overnight stay in Cornwall.

Day 3

Cornwall

Today you will explore the southwestern tip of Cornwall. You will see picturesque villages, breathtaking cliffs, and gain insight into the region's former mining history. You will begin the day with a photo stop at St. Michael's Mount. This small rocky island in the sea is considered a landmark of Cornwall. Weather permitting, you will start a short hike from the village of Sennen along the dramatic Cornish coast to the westernmost point of England, Land's End. As you continue your journey, you will see many remnants of Cornwall's former mining industry. In 2006, the area was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, you will visit the charming coastal town of St. Ives with its romantic houses, streets, and alleyways. At the end of the last century, many artists were based here, and even today there are many studios and galleries to visit. Above all, the town is a popular seaside resort with impressive sandy coves and cliffs.

Dinner and overnight stay in Cornwall.

Day 4

Day Trip to Trelissick Gardens

Today you will visit Trelissick Gardens. They are located on an estate with magnificent views over the estuary of the River Fal. The paths wind through the garden past exotic plants and colorful herbs. Learn about the history of the garden and discover a wide range of works by local Cornish artists in the on-site art gallery. The afternoon is at your leisure. Relax at the hotel, take a stroll along the beach, or explore the lively harbor town of Newquay.

Dinner and overnight stay in Cornwall.

Day 5

Killerton – Wells – Bristol

You will visit Killerton House and Gardens, an impressive 18th-century mansion. The house houses an extensive collection of clothing and costumes, exquisite porcelain, and beautiful tapestries. The gardens feature, among other things, vibrant rhododendrons and magnolias. The grounds also include the remains of an Iron Age fortification, a chapel, and a rustic summer house. In the afternoon, you will visit the market city of Wells, famous above all for its cathedral. You will visit the building with its imposing west facade and the scissor arches in the transept. During a short stroll through the medieval streets, you can enjoy magnificent views of the Bishop's Palace and the cathedral.

Dinner and overnight stay in Bristol.

Day 6

Bristol – Bath

On a morning city tour, you will discover the historic city of Bristol, considered one of the most beautiful cities in England. The city center and the picturesque harbor area are popular destinations, and Bristol Temple Meads Central Station is one of the oldest railway stations in the world. Around midday, you will visit the spa town of Bath, whose 2,000-year history began with the Romans' fondness for its hot springs, the only ones in Great Britain. During a walking tour of this historic city, you will discover, among other things, the picturesque Royal Crescent, a crescent-shaped row of houses in magnificent Georgian architecture, as well as Queen Square, The Circus, the university, and the well-preserved Roman baths, where millions of millions of hot spring waters have been flowing for over 2,000 years.

Dinner and overnight stay in Bristol.

Day 7

Stratford-upon-Avon – Cotswolds

In the morning, you will travel to the medieval town of Stratford-upon-Avon, famous above all as the birthplace and deathplace of William Shakespeare. During a walking tour, you will see Shakespeare's birthplace, the school the famous poet attended, and the Shakespeare Theatre, built in 1933, where the national poet's plays are still performed today. Driving through the idyllic Cotswolds in the heart of England, you can enjoy this beautiful region at a relaxed pace. Let the rolling hills and picturesque villages with their thatched cottages and medieval churches drift by. A stop in one of the charming towns will give you time for a stroll or a visit to a café.

Dinner and overnight stay in Bristol.

Day 8

Bristol – Stonehenge – Salisbury – Return Journey

In the morning, you will travel to Stonehenge. Since 1986, this ancient moat has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at this mystical and mysterious place, which remains an enigma to archaeologists. Afterwards, you will continue your journey to Salisbury. Here you will find a famous 13th-century cathedral, which, in addition to having the tallest church spire in England (approx. 135m), also houses a copy of the Magna Carta, which guaranteed the citizens' rights of freedom against the English king. You will have time for a short stroll through the medieval streets of the city, where many small shops, cozy pubs, and cafes line the streets.

Afterwards, transfer to the airport and return flight to Germany.

Explore Ireland

-> West of Ireland Tour

Day 1

Welcome to Ireland

Arrival at Dublin Airport. Hotel transfer not included. Assistance upon arrival. Dinner at own leisure.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Dublin or the surrounding area.

Day 2

Dublin - Galway

After breakfast at the hotel, visit St. Patrick's Cathedral: it is located next to the famous well where, according to tradition, St. Patrick baptized converts to Christianity. It is Gothic in style and inside is the tomb of Jonathan Swift, the author of Gulliver's Travels, who was dean of the Cathedral. Next, depart for a panoramic tour (by coach) of Dublin and its city center. Departure for Galway, with lunch en route. Arrive in Galway, check in to the hotel, and then depart for a walking tour of the city. Dinner at own leisure. Optional return bus service to the hotel.

Overnight stay at a hotel in County Galway.

Day 3

Connemara - Kylemore - Killary - Galway

After an Irish breakfast, depart for Connemara: a wild region characterized by its stone walls, small farms, and thatched cottages. You'll be captivated by its rugged, rocky coastline, inlets extending to Galway Bay, and its mountains with splendid views of the lakes, creating an unforgettable backdrop. Visit Kylemore Abbey (interior and gardens), a 19th-century residence located in one of Connemara's most picturesque landscapes. Continue to Killary Fjord, Ireland's only fjord. It's approximately twelve kilometers long and offers stunning scenery. Protected by the mountains, the water remains calm. Free time for lunch.

Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel in County Galway.

Day 4

Inishmore Aran Islands

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for an excursion to Inishmore, the largest of the Aran Islands. These three Aran Islands share the same limestone origins as the Burren in County Clare and contain some of the oldest remains of Christian and pre-Christian settlements in Ireland. Departing from Rossaveal (or Doolin), the ferry will take you about 45 minutes to Inishmore. A minibus will take you through the island's most significant sites, including the 2,000-year-old Dun Angus Fort, perched on stunning, unspoiled cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. Free time for lunch (on your own) and to purchase some of the famous Aran Islands sweaters. Return by ferry in the afternoon.

Dinner and overnight in County Limerick/Clare.

Day 5

Bunratty - Burren - Cliffs of Moher

After an Irish breakfast, we'll head to County Clare for an excursion. Visit Bunratty Castle, the most complete and authentic medieval complex in Ireland. Built in 1425 and definitively restored in 1954, the castle had suffered numerous looting and destruction, but today we can admire it in all its medieval splendor thanks to the furnishings and tapestries that recall the style of that period. The Folk Park surrounding the castle recreates rural life in Ireland 100 years ago, with its meticulously reconstructed farms, cottages, and shops. We'll cross the Burren, a fascinating karst region where water, flowing deep beneath the surface, has created caves and underground cavities. The Burren is the largest limestone region in Ireland, and its unique terrain gives it a lunar appearance. Opportunity to make a photo stop at the Poulnabrone Dolmen. Continue to the majestic and imposing Cliffs of Moher, 200 meters high and 8 km long: a breathtaking spectacle. Lunch on your own. Continue to County Kerry by ferry across the Shannon River Estuary.

Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel in County Kerry.

Day 6

Dingle Peninsula - Kerry

After breakfast, we'll visit the Dingle Peninsula, known for its spectacular coastal road with breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, its prehistoric monuments from the early Christian period, and its small village where Gaelic is still spoken. The coastal road takes us first along thousands of deserted beaches, such as Inch Beach, where the film "Ryan's Daughter" was filmed, then through the lively port of Dingle, renowned for its seafood restaurants and traditional pubs. Lunch is free.

Dinner and overnight stay in County Kerry.

Day 7

Adare - Cashel - Dublin

After breakfast at the hotel, depart for Dublin. A photo stop in Adare, a village renowned for its thatched-roof houses. Stop at the Rock of Cashel, which dominates the town from its 200-foot-high rock perch (a visit to Cormac's Chapel is not included). Lunch is on your own and the journey continues to Dublin. Dinner is on your own.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Dublin or the surrounding area.

Day 8

Farewell

Return flight to your country, transfer not included.

Explore Scotland

-> Scotland, Mythical Lands

Day 1

Welcome to Scotland

Arrival at Edinburgh Airport. Meet your assistant at the airport and transfer to the city center. Check in to your hotel. Dinner at your leisure.

Overnight stay in Edinburgh.

Day 2

Edinburgh - Glasgow

Have a breakfast at the hotel and meet your French-speaking guide for a city tour of Edinburgh. The capital of Scotland, Edinburgh is a magnificent city built on a series of volcanic hills. Visit Edinburgh Castle with its superb views of Princes Street; you can see the Scottish Crown Jewels. Then depart by luxury coach for Glasgow with lunch on your own en route. During your city tour, you will see Victorian mansions and classic Georgian facades. Glasgow is considered the cultural and musical capital of the country. Visit St. Mungo's Cathedral, founded in the 6th century and built in the Scottish Gothic style. Transfer to your hotel and check in. Dinner at your own leisure.

Overnight in Glasgow.

Day 3

Glasgow – Trossachs – Lomond – Fort William/Tyndrum/Oban Area

Breakfast at the hotel, then departure for a visit to a local distillery. During your tour, you will discover the distillation process used to make the famous Scotch Whisky. Next, departure for Loch Lomond via the Trossachs National Park, a region dear to the hearts of Scots, prized for the beauty of its lochs and forests. Lunch en route followed by a circular cruise on Loch Lomond. Transfer to and check-in at your hotel.

Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel in the Fort William/Tyndrum/Oban area.

Day 4

Glencoe – Isle of Skye

Breakfast at the hotel, then departure for the Glencoe Valley. This valley was nicknamed "the Valley of Tears" after the terrible Glencoe Massacre of 1692. Next, we pass near the Glenfinnan Viaduct, built between 1897 and 1901. This famous viaduct is featured in the Harry Potter films and is located at the top of Loch Shiel in the West Highlands. Next, board a ferry to reach the Isle of Skye (77 km long, 40 km wide), the largest of the Inner Hebrides islands. Once there, lunch will be served en route to the southern part of the island. Note that the Isle of Skye is one of the last strongholds of the Gaelic language, spoken by 58% of the population. Drive to your hotel and check in.

Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel on the Isle of Skye.

Day 5

Portree – Skye – Aviemore Area

Breakfast at the hotel, then departure for Portree. The capital of Skye and a renowned island port, Portree boasts a selection of shops, galleries, and artisan boutiques. Lunch is at your leisure today. Then, drive to Eilean Donan Castle, the famous castle from the film "Highlander." You will enjoy a short break and a photo stop to appreciate this location. Next, you will head towards Loch Ness to discover and visit Urquhart Castle. Drive to and check in to your hotel.

Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in the Aviemore area.

Day 6

Cairngorms National Park – Highlands – Aberdeen

Breakfast at the hotel, then departure for the Highlands through the Cairngorms National Park. This region is characterized by lakes, rivers, and enormous Munros (mountains over 914 meters high). After this drive, you will visit a typical Highland cattle farm, home to the famous Scottish Highland cattle with their distinctive hairy browns. Before continuing your journey, you will also enjoy a lunch featuring local beef. You will then travel to Aberdeen, Scotland's third-largest city. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a panoramic tour of the city. Aberdeen boasts excellent free museums and art galleries that you can visit independently (open 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM) if time permits after the tour. Your guide will be able to make recommendations. Transfer to your hotel and check-in.

Dinner and overnight stay at a hotel in the Aberdeen area.

Day 7

East Coast – St Andrews – Edinburgh

Breakfast at the hotel, then departure along the East Coast towards the ruins of Dunnottar Castle. Lunch en route at a local pub/restaurant. Then, drive to St Andrews, a small, elegant, and picturesque town surrounded by beautiful beaches on the North Sea. It's the world capital of golf! You can also visit its castle (in ruins) and its cathedral. Continue south and make a photo stop at the Forth Bridge. Drive to and check in to your hotel. Your transport pass will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby for your last evening, allowing you to enjoy the city center at your leisure (the pass is valid all day until 4:00 AM the following morning). Dinner at your leisure.

Overnight at a hotel in the Corstorphine district of Edinburgh.

Day 8

Departure

Departure formalities and transfer to Edinburgh Airport for your return flight.

Explore Wales

-> Wales - the land of the red Dragon

Day 1

Welcome to Wales

Upon arrival at Manchester Airport, you will be greeted by your tour guide and your Welsh adventure begins. On the way to your first accommodation, you will get to know the historic city of Chester. It boasts one of the best-preserved city walls in the country. The oldest parts are around 2,000 years old and were built by the Romans, for whom the city was an important base in England. In the Middle Ages, it was used as a starting point for campaigns against the Welsh. Later, the picturesque city became known as a holiday destination for the aristocracy. During a city tour, you will get to know this picturesque town better.

Dinner, overnight stay, and Welsh breakfast in Llandudno.

Day 2

Isle of Anglesey

Today you will explore the Isle of Anglesey, an island off the northwest coast of Wales. Two bridges span the Menai Strait, a narrow stretch of water, connecting Anglesey to the mainland. A visit to the Halen Môn Visitor Centre on Anglesey in North Wales will allow you to experience the quality of this natural sea salt from the Menai Strait for yourself. Afterwards, you will have time to explore the historic town of Beaumaris. In the bustling shopping street, you will find numerous cafes and restaurants perfect for lunch. The town is also home to one of the most famous Welsh castles. On a boat trip to Puffin Island, you will see not only impressive scenery but also a variety of bird species. The highlight of the tour is, of course, the puffins (April to July) that nest on the island. With a bit of luck, you might even spot seals, dolphins, or porpoises on your boat trip. On the way back to the hotel, you will make a brief stop at what is probably the most famous village in Wales with 58 letters in name which is the longest official place name in Europe.

Dinner, overnight stay, and Welsh breakfast in Llandudno.

Day 3

Snowdon Mountain Railway – Portmeirion

This morning, another highlight of your trip awaits. Today, you'll ascend Mount Snowdon by cog railway. At 1,085 meters, it's the highest mountain in Wales. Once at the top, you can enjoy a magnificent view over the mountainous landscape of Snowdonia National Park. The journey continues to Portmeirion, a small, remote village particularly famous as a filming location for the BBC television series The Prisoner. Located on the western edge of Snowdonia, the village is the legacy of architect Sir Bertram Clough Williams-Ellis, whose aim was to bring a touch of color to the shattered world after the First World War with his coastal village. Thus, the former landing stage for slate transport in Tremadog Bay was transformed into a Mediterranean-style village with architectural elements from all over Europe. Portmeirion has its own shops, cafes, and even a town hall, although no one lives there permanently. Then you will continue to your hotel in Llandrindod Wells.

Dinner, overnight stay and Welsh breakfast in Llandrindod Wells.

Day 4

Ceredigion Coastal Path - Aberyswyth – Devil’s Bridge

Today you will get to know the county of Ceredigion better. The 105-kilometer-long Ceredigion Coastal Path runs along the coast. You will make two stops along the way. First, you can enjoy a leisurely walk through the Ynyslas sand dunes. Afterwards, the small coastal village of Borth awaits you. Depending on the season and tides, you can see the submerged remains of a former forest here тАУ or at least learn more about its history! Right around lunchtime, you will reach the seaside resort of Aberyswyth, which, with its more than 7,000 students, is the cultural center of Mid Wales. You will stroll along the 5-kilometer-long Victorian seafront promenade. At the northern end, you will board the Aberyswyth Cliff Railway. In just a few minutes, Britain's oldest funicular railway takes you to Constitution Hill, from where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city, Cardigan Bay and the Welsh mountain landscape. You will then reach Devil's Bridge. These unique waterfalls have attracted thousands of visitors since the 18th century, including William Wordsworth, who wrote about the 'River at Devil's Bridge' Legend has it that the oldest bridge was built by the Devil because it was too difficult for mortals to cross the river.

Dinner, overnight stay, and Welsh breakfast in Llandrindod Wells.

Day 5

Pembrokeshire

Today is dedicated to Pembrokeshire National Park, which, with its cliffs, beaches, and unique wildlife, delights not only nature lovers. You will continue on to the small town of St. Davids. St. Davids owes its "town" status to the fact that it is home to a cathedral. With just under 2,000 inhabitants, it is the smallest "cathedral town" in the United Kingdom. St. Davids Cathedral is one of the oldest structures in all of Great Britain. Its origins date back to the 6th century, when the Welsh patron saint, St. David, founded his monastery in Glyn Rhosyn ("Valley of Roses") on the River Alun. Afterwards, a short coastal walk is on the agenda. To conclude the day, you will get to know the charming seaside town of Tenby a little better. Besides a lively harbor, there are also many listed buildings. Pastel-colored houses above the harbor create a colorful scene. Admire the brightly painted houses, the historic city walls, and fantastic beaches. Here you'll have time to relax on the beach or take a short hike along the coast.

Dinner, overnight stay, and Welsh breakfast in Carmarthen.

Day 6

Gower Peninsula – Cardiff

Near the city of Swansea lies the Gower Peninsula, a region designated as being of outstanding natural beauty, not only for its magnificent, miles-long beaches. You will stop at Mumbles Lighthouse, which sits picturesquely on a small island off the coast. Since 1794, it has guided ships safely. The perfect place for a short walk with stunning views. Afterwards, you will reach the Welsh capital and visit the famous Cardiff Castle. The castle comprises three distinct parts: a Gothic manor house and a Norman castle, surrounded by the walls of a Roman fort. The conversion into a Victorian dream castle was only completed in 1927, and it has been open to the public as a museum since 1974. In addition to the main tower of the Norman castle and the state rooms of the manor house, you can also see the World War II air raid shelter and a museum dedicated to the Royal Welsh Army.

Overnight stay and Welsh breakfast in Cardiff.

Day 7

Shrewsbury – Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

In the morning, you will visit the only Welsh distillery, Penderyn Distillery, on a guided tour. Take a look behind the scenes and sample the fine spirit at the end of your tour. This popular single malt is described as mild and fruity. Afterwards, you will travel to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. "Stream in the sky" is the local name for Britain's largest water bridge, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will have the opportunity to take a short walk on the aqueduct.

Dinner, overnight stay, and Welsh breakfast in the Chester/Wrexham area.

Day 8

Departure

Transfer to the airport.

Start Planning Your UK & Ireland Tour

Work directly with our senior sales experts to create exceptional travel experiences. Colin Wynne (North America & Long Haul) and Mylène Campalto (Europe) are here to collaborate with you in crafting tailor-made journeys that showcase the very best of the UK and Ireland.

NA & LH market

Colin Wynne
Head of Sales
Contact the sales team

European market

Mylène Campalto
Head of Sales
Everything you need to know

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about our services.

Looking for a trusted UK & Ireland DMC?

Abbey - The Destination Experts is one of the region’s leading Destination Management Companies (DMCs), creating bespoke travel programmes for groups, special interest tours and premium travellers. Below are answers to the questions we are most often asked by our partners around the world.

Who is Abbey - The Destination Experts, and what do you do?

Abbey - The Destination Experts is a full-service Destination Management Company specialising in tailor-made travel across England, Scotland, Wales, and Ireland. We work exclusively with travel trade partners - tour operators, travel agencies, and consortia - to design and operate bespoke group itineraries, themed tours, and individual travel experiences.

What makes Abbey different from other DMCs?

Our difference lies in experience, expertise, and reliability. With market-dedicated teams and deep local knowledge, we deliver exceptional travel experiences backed by strong supplier partnerships. Many of our clients return year after year, trusting Abbey for consistency, precision, and care.

What types of travel programmes do you handle?

We manage a wide range of travel experiences including leisure groups, educational and religious tours, special interest programmes, and premium or luxury itineraries. Every tour is customised to match your clients' expectations, travel style, and budget.

Can you create tailor-made itineraries?

Yes. Every itinerary we produce is built from the ground up, tailored to your requirements, travel dates, and target market. Our teams blend creativity with operational excellence to ensure smooth, memorable travel throughout the UK and Ireland.

How can I request a quotation or proposal?

Contact our sales team with your group details — number of travellers, travel period, preferred destinations, and any special interests. A dedicated market expert will prepare a detailed, tailor-made proposal within an agreed timeframe.

What support do you provide during the tour?

Our operations teams closely monitors each programme, maintaining direct communication with suppliers and clients. We also provide 24/7 emergency support to guarantee peace of mind from arrival to departure.

Do you work only with the travel trade?

Yes. Abbey - The Destination Experts operates exclusively as a B2B DMC. We act as your local partner behind the scenes, representing your brand and ensuring smooth delivery throughout the traveller journey.

How do you ensure the quality of your suppliers and services?

We collaborate only with trusted suppliers who meet Abbey’s standards for reliability, safety, and service excellence. Each partner is regularly reviewed to maintain the high level of quality our clients expect.

Do you have a sustainability policy?

Yes. Abbey is committed to responsible and sustainable travel. We work with suppliers who value environmental responsibility and community engagement, ensuring our tours support local economies and respect the destinations we showcase.

Why do clients choose Abbey again and again?

Our partners stay with us because we deliver — every time. Reliability, attention to detail, and open communication are central to everything we do. With decades of experience and a collaborative approach, we’ve become a trusted choice for operators planning UK and Ireland travel.

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