11-Day Road Trip in England, Scotland, and Wales from London to Leeds, Edinburgh, Carlisle, Caernarfon, and Llangollen

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in England, Scotland, and Wales 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.

In London, the extraordinary Big Ben awaits. This attraction is a valued cultural icon that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 65,522 travelers' reviews.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in London. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in London. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in England in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Begin your culinary exploration in London by securing a reservation at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Alex Dilling at Hotel Café Royal, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern french menu. With a 2-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Bar Américain, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Connaught Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Bar Polski also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Your multi-country road trip in England, Scotland, and Wales 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.

Wake up to day 2 of your extraordinary road trip through England, Scotland, and Wales. On this day, you’ll embark on an exciting expedition discovering the enchanting sights and activities of Kensington in England. With 2 nights left in London, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!

Set your GPS to Kensington and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kensington beckons with new experiences!

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated museum and attraction in Kensington — Victoria and Albert Museum. About 56,963 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Science Museum is another top sight in Kensington that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved science museum in the area, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 66,659 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Richmond. This drive usually takes around 24 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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 46,237 travelers' reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Westminster.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Westminster is the fantastic Hyde Park. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Hyde Park has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 128,167 reviews.

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.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Estiatorio Milos, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try The Palomar, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Berners Tavern. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Artesian, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, American Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Old Shades also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

Wake up and see what day 3 of your great European road trip in England, Scotland, and Wales has in store for you! You will be staying in London for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

A tour of London is not complete without a visit to the famous British Museum. This incredible national museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,665 travelers, and is visited by 5,906,716 people every year.

Make the most of your London travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful National Gallery. This art museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 49,550 travelers and gets around 6,011,007 annual visits.

You can then move on to the incredible Trafalgar Square for an experience worth remembering. This local square and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 123,506 visitors.

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.

Make sure to book a table at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, a popular restaurant in London. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of London at Wiltons Restaurant, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Rules. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to London tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Scarfes Bar, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Heliot Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, BFI IMAX 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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your multi-country journey across England, Scotland, and Wales. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - London in England. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Leeds where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in London, including the outstanding Madame Tussauds London. Having an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 73,606 reviews, this fascinating wax museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Leeds. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 31 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in London is the fantastic Tate Modern. As an appreciated art gallery and local gem in the area, Tate Modern has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 74,768 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Borough Market. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 99,307 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Set your GPS to Westminster and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Westminster beckons with new experiences!

Buckingham Palace is a travelers’ favorite in Westminster, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 168,513 visitors.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Leeds. 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 Leeds’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, Scotland, and Wales.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Leeds by booking a table at Prashad, a Bib Gourmand restaurant that boasts an exceptional indian vegetarian menu. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cosy Club, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Leeds this evening.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Pixel Bar Leeds, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, North Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Brudenell Social Club. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Celebrate day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 5 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in England, Scotland, and Wales, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Ripon 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 2 nights.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Ripon, 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 Leeds to Ripon may take around 58 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Ripon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Ripon, including the outstanding National Trust - Brimham Rocks. Having an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 5,728 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Ripon is also home to the captivating Fountains Abbey, a local abbey considered one of the highlights of the city. About 6,756 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.8 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary Ripon Cathedral is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Ripon. This extraordinary anglican or episcopal cathedral and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,380 travelers.

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.

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Edinburgh. Check out our recommendations on where to wine and dine while seeing this marvelous destination in Scotland in a new light. After dinner, head out to a bar to relax, mingle with the locals, and raise a toast to your unforgettable road trip vacation in Europe.

Experience a taste of Heron in Edinburgh by booking a reservation in advance. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin distinction, Heron delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Condita, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover The Kitchin, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Panda & Sons, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Cafe Royal, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Ensign Ewart likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Relax, recharge, and look forward to what tomorrow holds. The opportunities are endless with a European self-drive tour!

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, Scotland, and Wales.

Edinburgh Castle is a travelers’ favorite in Edinburgh, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 visitors.

In Edinburgh, don’t miss Camera Obscura, a great visitor centre and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,536 reviews.

Check other top attractions in Edinburgh off your list when you visit the wonderful Scottish National Gallery. This popular sight is an outstanding art museum, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,079 travelers. Approximately 660,741 people visit this attraction each year.

Beyond the above-mentioned top sights, take the opportunity to visit the outstanding Dean Village. This village and place of interest has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,727 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, the fantastic Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh awaits. This botanical garden is a tourist hot spot, garnering an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 visitors.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the city of Edinburgh boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Scotland.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Cafe Andaluz offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Arcade Bar Haggis & Whisky House is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Hoot The Redeemer, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out Albanach, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, The Bow Bar provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.

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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Edinburgh in Scotland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Carlisle, 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 The Real Mary King's Close. This incredible attraction and sightseeing destination holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 10,638 visitors.

According to travelers in Edinburgh, the extraordinary National Museum of Scotland is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and national museum is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 visitors.

As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible official residence, Holyrood Palace. Up to 17,746 visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular archaeological site, Holyrood Park. This attraction is rated an average 4.8 out of 5 stars among 12,119 visitors.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Carlisle, 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 Edinburgh to Carlisle may take around 2 hours 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Carlisle, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Carlisle's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of England to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, Carlisle has them.

Esteemed as a much-enjoyed restaurant, it features an exceptional menu.

As the night falls in Carlisle, 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, Scotland, and Wales. Today's main destinations are Graig in Wales, 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 Caernarfon. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Graig’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Carlisle behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 15 min. Graig welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Something that makes Graig the perfect holiday destination is that the hamlet offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding park, National Trust - Bodnant Garden. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 8,261 visitors.

Colwyn Bay’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Graig behind. This drive usually takes around 15 min. Colwyn Bay welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Colwyn Bay is the magnificent Eirias Park. Around 1,137 visitors have rated this excellent sports venue and travel destination an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Llandudno Junction. This car ride takes around 10 min.

Something that makes Llandudno Junction the perfect holiday destination is that the hamlet offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding castle, Conwy Castle. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,380 visitors.

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

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, Scotland, and Wales by rewarding yourself with a taste of Caernarfon’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.

With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Caernarfon.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in England, Scotland, and Wales! Enjoy your evening in Caernarfon to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the town center, or simply just relaxing.

On day 9 of your multi-country road trip across England, Scotland, and Wales, 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 Caernarfon in Wales. In the evening, you’ll end up in Llangollen, where you will stay for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Caernarfon is the fantastic Caernarfon Castle. As an appreciated castle and local gem in the area, Caernarfon Castle has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,857 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Portmeirion. This drive usually takes around 37 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Portmeirion, including the outstanding Portmeirion. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 9,962 reviews, this fascinating village and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.

Set your GPS to Trawsfynydd and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 31 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Trawsfynydd beckons with new experiences!

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Trawsfynydd, including the outstanding Eryri National Park (Snowdonia). Having an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars in 23,940 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Llangollen’s top hotels offer a lovely retreat at day’s end. Choose from options ranging from budget to luxury.

As the day unfolds, you’ll be delighted to find that the town of Llangollen boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of Wales.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 10 of your multi-country journey across England, Scotland, and Wales. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Watford in England. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to London where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Set your GPS to Watford, England and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 3 hours 19 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Watford beckons with new experiences!

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Cassiobury Park. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.7 stars out of 5 from 7,463 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Cassiobury Park is worth pages in your travel diary.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Leavesden. This car ride takes around 12 min.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Leavesden today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 84,358 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Leavesden, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Eton. Your travel time is around 33 min.

A tour of Eton is not complete without a visit to the famous Windsor Castle. This incredible historic house museum and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 54,973 travelers.

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

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.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at The Royal Horseguards Hotel & One Whitehall Place, London, an iconic dining spot in London. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hawksmoor Seven Dials, a popular restaurant in London. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Simpson's in the Strand, a hidden gem nestled in London. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like The Old Bank of England, known for its lively atmosphere. The Ship & Shovell is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance.

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!

On day 11 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, Scotland, and Wales. 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 England by visiting London’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in England.

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, Scotland, and Wales.

This renowned restaurant holds and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine.

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 11-day European road trip in England, Scotland, and Wales with fond memories. Safe travels!