The modern era is a far cry from the first Lions tour back in 1888 which visited Australia and New Zealand with just 21 players from England , Scotland and Wales . British and British Lions are selected from England , Scotland , Wales and Ireland . Tours now take place the early 1970s to South Africa , Ireland and England . Selection for the British Lions is highly-coveted by leading rugby players .
British and British Lions are selected from England , Scotland , Wales and Ireland . Tours now take place the early 1970s to South Africa , Ireland and England . Selection for the British Lions is highly-coveted by leading rugby players .