We are three women in our 60's going in Sept 2018. Starting in Ireland, then on to Scotland with our last stop in Wales. Would like some advice where to stay to be able to use ground transportation for all of our Sightseeing. We are also open to joining a tour group. Do not want to rent a car. Thank you.
Those countries have multiple bus operators, but for a quick overview of train lines, see rail maps at http://www.nationalrail.co.uk/stations_destinations/maps.aspx and at http://www.irishrail.ie/travel-information/station-and-route-maps.
Rick's guidebooks summarize the public transport connections for each destination he covers, as well as his maps reflect train lines. On Google Maps or Via Michelin, you have to zoom in pretty closely to see train lines and stations.
What places do you want to visit? That will affect your choice of base cities.
If you are interested in tours, click on the Our Tours link on the left hand side of the website and browse itineraries for Ireland (2 tours), England (a 14 day one that also goes to Wales) and Scotland (10 days). Lots of choices. The tours are fun and educational. I have taken the 8 day tour of Ireland this past Sept. which was packed with sights and activities with congenial tour mates.
How many days do you plan in each of these places? Where do you fly in and from where do you fly out? What are your top interests? What's your budget? Do you have any "must avoid" considerations, like food allergies, mobility (stairs)?