We're planning on spending about 2 weeks in the UK and Ireland later this year. Both my wife and I have not been in these countries in many years. We intend to get about by train and bus.

We enjoy seeing a mix of urban and rural areas and often stay in B&B's or smaller hotels. We do not like to move about too much, so maybe three or four stops would be just right for us. We like history, galleries, gardens and nature and my wife likes to do a little shopping.

I know it's a tall order, but would anyone care to suggest a few possible itineraries.

Many thanks.

"<i>would anyone care to suggest a few possible itineraries.</i>"

Can't really help much w/o a bit more focus. Two weeks in two countries by public transport and just 3 or 4 stops -- could mean absolutely anywhere. I could literally suggest 50 towns in southern England and Ireland that would meet your criteria. And including northern England and Northern Ireland - add another 50 towns. (actually more than 50+50 but didn't want to pile on )

Do you have any "must see's" or places you have been before that you either want to re-visit or avoid? Do you want to include cities like London and Dublin -- or just country towns/villages. You honestly could go anywhere . . .

Maybe click on DESTINATIONS above, or check out a guidebook or two and let us know what areas seem to your liking.

Sounds like an interesting trip. I am interested in reading the suggestions you get. Also, I hope you do a trip report when you return.

Three or four stops over such a large area means that you can only hope to get a small taste of the two countries. I would suggest that you use the following bases:

London
Manchester
Edinburgh
Dublin

London for the obvious reasons and there's so much to do. 3/4 days in each place isn't enough.

Manchester for a great Northern City with lots of history and US links (see Lincoln Square for instance) and wonderful buildings both old and new. Nice hotels of all standards and fantastic eating choices. Easy access to Liverpool, Lake District.

Edinburgh for a taste of Scotland;lots of history in the City and good architecture.

Dublin for the unique Irish something. Again the comments about Edinburgh apply.

You didn't give us much to go on, but hope this helps.

York would also make a good northern base on the way to edinburgh...i found it much nicer than manchester.

To be of any real help you will need to provide us with more to go on.