9-Day Road Trip in England and Scotland from London to Sheffield, Edinburgh, and Preston

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in England and Scotland begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of London in England. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in London for 3 nights.

Catch an early flight to England to enjoy as much time as possible exploring London before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in London today.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in London. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in England. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

After a day of exploration and awe-inspiring sights, it’s time to replenish your strength. Make the most of this stop on your multi-country road trip across England and Scotland by rewarding yourself with a taste of London’s local cuisine. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax or mingle with the locals and raise a toast to your exciting road trip adventure.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in The Wolseley, a distinguished dining establishment in London. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 5,980 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in London is Burger & Lobster Leicester Square. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 4,454 happy diners.

Hawksmoor Air Street stands out as a local favorite in London. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,216 customers.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, The Connaught Bar. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 654 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Hawksmoor Seven Dials. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,084 customers.

The Red Lion, Parliament Street cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 3,534 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.3 out of 5 stars average rating.

Your multi-country road trip in England and Scotland has only just begun. Brace yourself for more exciting days to come as you cross country borders in the comfort of your rental car and discover the most unique attractions, activities, and foods of each destination.

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful London. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in London today.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of England's delectable cuisine at one of London's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Bill's Soho Restaurant. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in London has received a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from around 4,178 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Cahoots London should be on your list. Situated in the heart of London, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,678 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at The Ivy. This highly regarded restaurant in London has earned a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 2,597 satisfied guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to The Old Bank of England, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, The Old Bank of England has charmed many with its 4.4 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 2,562 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Rules, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Rules captures hearts with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 1,824 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on The Ship & Shovell, another local party gem in London. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,465 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Take in the ambiance of London as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip through England and Scotland. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Westminster in England. With 1 night left in London, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

In Richmond, the extraordinary Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew awaits. This attraction is a valued non-departmental public body that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 45,021 travelers' reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Westminster. This car ride takes around 25 min.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Westminster today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Hyde Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 126,766 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Westminster, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Kensington may take around 7 min. Upon your arrival in Kensington, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Kensington is the magnificent Science Museum. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes over 2,989,000 travelers from across the world. Around 65,368 visitors have rated this excellent science museum and travel destination an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Victoria and Albert Museum on this leg of your adventure in England. This attraction is a well-known museum that has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from around 55,517 travelers. Given this incredible site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 3,932,738 people visit it every year.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kensington and set your GPS to Greenwich. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 47 min. Upon reaching Greenwich, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

As the day slows down and turns into evening, we encourage you to indulge your taste buds at one of the top-rated restaurants in London. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Reserve your spot at Berners Tavern, a popular local restaurant in London. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,817 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience The Palomar during your stay in London. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,537 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Smith & Wollensky, a popular local gem in London. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,343 satisfied guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Social Eating House, a must-visit hotspot in the city of London. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, backed by 1,280 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Old Shades, consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to American Bar, one of the top-rated bars in London, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 667 satisfied customers.

Celebrate day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 4 of your multi-country road trip across England and Scotland, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places to see in London in England. In the evening, you’ll end up in Sheffield, where you will stay for 1 night.

A tour of Westminster is not complete without a visit to the famous Buckingham Palace. This incredible royal palace and attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 164,776 travelers.

After soaking in Westminster’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: London. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 15 min. When you arrive in London, it's time to take a break from the road.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated ferris wheel and attraction in London — London Eye. About 171,401 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to London, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Sheffield. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 31 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Sheffield. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in England and Scotland, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Sheffield. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

Make your stay in Sheffield one for the books by indulging in an unforgettable culinary experience at Prashad, a gem acclaimed by food experts. Its delightful indian vegetarian cuisine and the praise from satisfied patrons speak of its outstanding quality. Prashad promises exceptional dishes and ensures your dining experience will be nothing short of extraordinary.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Sheffield is Whitelock's Ale House. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 2,044 happy diners.

Bill's Leeds Restaurant stands out as a local favorite in Sheffield. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,768 customers.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Cosy Club, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. Cosy Club boasts an impressive 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,636 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Leeds, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Leeds has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,340 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, North Bar. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5-star from 1,340 customers.

Go to bed happy and look forward to a good night’s sleep as soon as your head hits the pillow. Your European tour continues tomorrow!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your multi-country journey across England and Scotland. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - York in England and Edinburgh in Scotland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Edinburgh where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, York. This car ride takes around 45 min.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Wigginton, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from York to Wigginton may take around 14 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Wigginton today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Moorlands Woodland Nature Reserve. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 292 visitors.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Edinburgh, Scotland. This car ride takes around 3 hours 48 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Edinburgh.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Edinburgh. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across England and Scotland.

Enjoy an outstanding Bib Gourmand dining experience at Heron. Holding an impressive 1 Michelin-star rating and a remarkable menu, Heron consistently impresses both foreign and local guests, earning praise for its exceptional modern cuisine.

Another renowned restaurant is Condita, one of the best Bib Gourmand 1-star Michelin fine dining venues in Edinburgh. Take your pick from the modern menu, where each dish is a masterpiece meticulously crafted to delight your senses.

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable dining experience at The Kitchin in Edinburgh. With its prestigious 1-Michelin star rating, the menu is crafted to delight your palate and take you on a culinary journey. This acclaimed restaurant with a Bib-Gourmand award, serves modern dishes that have garnered numerous reviews from satisfied guests.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Panda & Sons, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Panda & Sons has charmed many with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 1,617 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at The Dome, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. The Dome captures hearts with its 4.6 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 6,433 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on Whiski Bar & Restaurant, another local party gem in Edinburgh. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,669 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 6, you will wake up in Edinburgh with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in Edinburgh before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across England and Scotland.

As the sun sets on day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Edinburgh's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Scotland to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the region’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Edinburgh has them.

Reserve your spot at Dishoom Edinburgh, a popular local restaurant in Edinburgh. This culinary hotspot and its flavorful dishes have left a lasting impression on guests. Its dedication to culinary mastery is reflected by its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 5,852 satisfied guests.

Make it a priority to experience Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre during your stay in Edinburgh. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,950 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Cafe Andaluz, a popular local gem in Edinburgh. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,019 satisfied guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Edinburgh. At Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,238 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, another popular bar in the region. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 2,314 reviews.

Cafe Royal is also one of the best places in Edinburgh where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,216 customers.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Edinburgh in Scotland and Preston in England. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Preston, your home for 1 night.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Edinburgh today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Royal Mile. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular National Museum of Scotland. This incredible attraction and national museum holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to 45,476 visitors.

According to travelers in Edinburgh, the extraordinary Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and botanical garden is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible village, Dean Village. Up to 13,727 visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Preston’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Edinburgh behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 43 min. Preston welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Edinburgh today.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Preston of your choice.

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of England's delectable cuisine at one of Preston's best restaurants. After a nice meal, enhance your vacation experience by enjoying the local nightlife or unwinding with a drink or two in the city’s most recommended bars.

Don't forget to book a table at Turtle Bay Preston, a well-known eatery in Preston. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 1,728 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Bistrot Pierre while exploring Preston. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,124 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Cafe Bar, a popular restaurant in Preston. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 786 discerning diners.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Black Horse. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 774 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Wings & Beer Co. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 727 customers.

FORUM BAR & KITCHEN cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 500 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.5 out of 5 stars average rating.

As the night falls in Preston, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across England and Scotland. Today's main destinations are Alrewas in England, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in London. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Alrewas is the fantastic National Memorial Arboretum. As an appreciated arboretum and local gem in the area, National Memorial Arboretum has earned an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 12,026 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Alrewas, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Leavesden may take around 2 hours 9 min. Upon your arrival in Leavesden, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in London. This is not only a place to sleep but your home away from home, offering a warm welcome after a long day on the road.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by London’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the city’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in England and Scotland.

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Estiatorio Milos. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in London boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from around 1,065 visitors.

Another dining spot you shouldn’t miss while in London is Simpson's in the Strand. It has garnered a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 830 diners thanks to its impeccable menu options and flavors.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Artesian. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 657 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Bar Américain. This popular bar in London is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 697 customers.

Take in the ambiance of London as this vacation day slowly comes to an end. Whether you’re going bar hopping or you decide on a quiet night at your hotel, you have another exciting day of your road trip to look forward to!

On day 9 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of London before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across England and Scotland. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Optimize your last day in England and go on a shopping spree in London’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in England, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Get a last taste of England’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in London and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across England and Scotland.

The time has come to say farewell to London for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 9-day European road trip in England and Scotland with fond memories. Safe travels!