One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Scotland and England With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Windermere and York
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Description
Set off on an exciting multi-country adventure lasting 8 days. The journey covers Scotland and England, showcasing stunning scenery at every stop.
With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 4 nights in Scotland and 3 nights in England.
In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Scotland, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Edinburgh and begin your adventure from there. Explore Edinburgh, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Balmaha, and Skinflats, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.
Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of England. Immerse yourself in the allure of Bardon Mill, Haltwhistle, Windermere, Grasmere, Keswick, York, Alnwick, and Bamburgh, where every street tells a story.
Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Bardon Mill’s Castra Vindolanda. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.
Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.
Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Scotland and England will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.
By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 8-day self-drive adventure in Scotland and England. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.
Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Scotland and England.
Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!
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Day 1
- Edinburgh - Arrival day
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- Calton Hill
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Scotland and England begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Edinburgh in Scotland. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Edinburgh for 3 nights.
Catch an early flight to Scotland to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Edinburgh 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.
Edinburgh is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Calton Hill, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Edinburgh. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Scotland and England, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Edinburgh. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Edinburgh at Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated The Theatre Royal Bar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Edinburgh tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Juniper Edinburgh, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Panda & Sons provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Your multi-country road trip in Scotland and England 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
- Edinburgh
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 3 min
- Holyrood Palace
- National Museum of Scotland
- Edinburgh Castle
- Dean Village
- Leith
- Old Town
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Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Edinburgh. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.
Set aside time today to explore Leith, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Old Town, a neighborhood offering another perspective on the city.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Edinburgh today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Holyrood Palace. This historic palace will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Museum Of Scotland and learn what makes this instagrammable museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the top-rated Edinburgh Castle. After exploring the castle, head to Dean Village. This notable historical landmark is a highlight in Edinburgh.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Edinburgh’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 Scotland and England.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Novotel Edinburgh Centre offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tigerlily. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Edinburgh.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cafe Royal, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Ensign Ewart provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tonic offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
Take in the ambiance of Edinburgh 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!
Day 3
- Edinburgh
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Drive 226 km, 3 hours 51 min
- The National Wallace Monument
- Stirling Castle
- Tom Weir Statue
- The Kelpies
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Wake up to day 3 of your extraordinary road trip through Scotland and England. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Cambuskenneth in Scotland. With 1 night left in Edinburgh, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
Today’s agenda in Edinburgh includes a monument, a castle, and an art installation. Wallace Monument is must-visit monument and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Stirling Castle, a captivating castle, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Tom Weir Statue, a breathtaking monument, also available for your discovery today.
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 Scotland and England by rewarding yourself with a taste of Edinburgh’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.
Savor the flavors at Angels with Bagpipes, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Rabble Taphouse and Grill beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Black Ivy. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Hoot The Redeemer, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Albanach is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Thistle Street Bar is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 4
- Edinburgh
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 316 km, 5 hours 26 min
- Vindolanda
- Milecastle 42 - Hadrian's Wall
- Windermere
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across Scotland and England. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bardon Mill in England. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Windermere where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.
Discover a day packed with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and photo-friendly spots in Edinburgh. Begin your sightseeing with Castra Vindolanda. This locally appreciated archeological site is one of the top attractions in the village. Proceed to Milecastle 42 - Hadrian's Wall, another must-visit attraction.
As you wander through the inviting streets of Edinburgh, soak in the lively ambiance and take the opportunity to snap some photos. Next, head to Windermere. This often recommended lake is a traveler-favorite.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Windermere. 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 Scotland and England, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Windermere. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!
Day 5
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 72 km, 1 hour 35 min
- National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
- Keswick Museum
- Castlerigg stone circle
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Greet day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Scotland and England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Windermere for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Grasmere in England.
Start your adventure at National Trust - Allan Bank And Grasmere. This curiosity-inducing point of interest is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Keswick Museum located in Windermere for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Castlerigg Stone Circle. Its culturally significant features will captivate you.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the town of Windermere boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of England.
As the night falls in Windermere, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lie back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.
Day 6
- Bowness-on-Windermere
- York
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Drive 181 km, 2 hours 50 min
- York Minster
- Shambles Market
- Clifford's Tower, York
- Jorvik Viking Centre
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On day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Scotland and England, 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 York in England. In the evening, you’ll end up in York, where you will stay for 1 night.
Windermere is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a church, a market, a castle, a museum and much more! Begin your sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned York Minster and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Shambles Market, a visually striking market that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Clifford's Tower, York, one of the city’s most curiosity-inducing spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the well-known Jorvik Viking Centre.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in York. 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.
As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of York boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of England.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Yakamoz, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, House Of The Trembling Madness is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Turtle Bay York. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in York tonight.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at The Habit Cafe Bar. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Shambles Tavern, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Pivní York provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 7
- York
- Edinburgh
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Drive 339 km, 4 hours 28 min
- The Alnwick Garden
- Alnwick Castle
- RNLI Grace Darling Museum
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On day 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Scotland and England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Alnwick in England. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore York on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. The Alnwick Garden is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this serene botanical garden before continuing your journey. Alnwick Castle is your next stop. This interesting castle is one of the best-rated sights in York.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Grace Darling Museum. This visually striking museum is a sight to behold.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Edinburgh. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.
In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Edinburgh’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 Scotland and England.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, an iconic dining spot in Edinburgh. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at The Waverley Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Royal Oak offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out The Oxford Bar. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Spend the evening looking over your itinerary for tomorrow and reminisce about what you’ve seen and done so far on your European road trip adventure. New experiences await!
Day 8
- Edinburgh - Departure day
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- The Royal Mile
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On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Edinburgh 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 Scotland and England. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.
Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Edinburgh’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing George Street. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland. Elevate your style with pieces from high-end retail stores.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Royal Mile. This captivating street is a popular place to see in the city.
Get a last taste of Scotland’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Edinburgh 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 Scotland and England.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Fishers In The City, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Amber Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
The time has come to say farewell to Edinburgh for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in Scotland and England with fond memories. Safe travels!
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