One-Week Road Trip in England and Scotland from London to Leeds, 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 2 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.

One place travelers keep coming back to in London is the magnificent Trafalgar Square. Around 121,847 visitors have rated this excellent square and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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.

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.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Paladar. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in London has received a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from around 866 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, The Wolseley 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 4.4 out of 5 stars from 5,980 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Dishoom Kensington. This highly regarded restaurant in London has earned a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 4,125 satisfied guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Scarfes Bar. This famous bar in London has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 883 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, The Connaught Bar. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. The Connaught Bar has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 654 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend BOXPARK Croydon. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 7,643 customers.

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 1 night more before hitting the road again.

Get a more in-depth understanding of London by checking out the amazing selection of tours and excursions you can add to your itinerary. Explore more of the city’s wonders, create memorable experiences, and join laid-back to challenging activities. You’ll be happy to learn that there are plenty of top-rated tours and activities in London.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bill's Soho Restaurant, an iconic dining spot in London. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Its dedication to culinary innovation is evident in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 4,178 satisfied guests.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at The Red Lion, Parliament Street while in London. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, treasured by 3,534 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Cahoots London, a favorite in London. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,678 discerning guests.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 4,454 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Hawksmoor Air Street. This popular bar in London is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,216 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Hawksmoor Seven Dials. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Hawksmoor Seven Dials has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,084 reviews.

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 3 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 Leeds, where you will stay for 1 night.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Big Ben. This outstanding cultural icon and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 61,373 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Big Ben is worth pages in your travel diary.

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 40 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Prepare for a great time when you reach London. While in London, you’ll soak in England’s rich culture while exploring its wonderful attractions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in London today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding London Eye. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 171,401 visitors.

Westminster, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. We highly recommend checking out its popular attractions.

In Westminster, the extraordinary Buckingham Palace awaits. This attraction is a valued royal palace that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 164,776 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Westminster is the spectacular Hyde Park. This attraction is a park that is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 126,766 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

When you reach London, that’s your cue to take a breather from the road and indulge in some sightseeing and adventure. Check out some of the top attractions in the city.

Big Ben is a travelers’ favorite in London, 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 61,373 visitors.

Elevate your experience in London by engaging in exhilarating activities and joining tours that uncover the hidden wonders of this beautiful city.

Don’t miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to include a unique blend of top-rated experiences to your travel diary. Browse all of your options below and reserve your slot before it's too late.

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.

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 Leeds. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.

Take your Leeds getaway to new heights by dining at Prashad, a luxury restaurant. Renowned for its world-famous rating and a variety of creative and refined dishes, Prashad consistently impresses foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional indian vegetarian cuisine.

Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy culinary excellence at Bill's Leeds Restaurant while in Leeds. This renowned dining destination showcases an exquisite menu, distinguished with an exceptional rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, treasured by 1,768 previous guests.

Delight in the culinary creations of Riva Blu Italian Restaurant & Bar, Leeds, a favorite in Leeds. Its innovative menu offers a symphony of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. With a reputation for excellence, it has earned a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,548 discerning guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Brudenell Social Club. This famous bar in Leeds has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 4,012 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Whitelock's Ale House. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Whitelock's Ale House has received an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,044 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Cosy Club. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,636 customers.

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

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Edinburgh. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Leeds, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your European road trip adventure. Set course for Scotland! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Edinburgh may take around 4 hours 33 min.

Upon your arrival in York you’ll be greeted with an exciting opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring. Immerse yourself in the unique charm of this city and discover some of its most popular sights.

Shambles Market is a travelers’ favorite in York, 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 10,860 visitors.

In York, don’t miss York Minster, a great church building and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,951 reviews.

As you arrive in Wigginton, it’s yet again time for a break from the road for some sightseeing and exploring. In this one-of-a-kind village in England, you’ll find some of the area’s most outstanding sights.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Wigginton, including the outstanding Moorlands Woodland Nature Reserve. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 292 reviews, this fascinating park and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else York has in store for you.

There are many top-rated experiences you can include in your travel plan to add flavor to your adventure in England. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

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

Before this memorable day of your vacation comes to a close, treat your palate to a taste of Scotland's delectable cuisine at one of Edinburgh'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 region’s most recommended bars.

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 1-star Michelin fine dining venues in Edinburgh. Take your pick from the modern menu, which has consistently earned Condita high ratings and acclaim from satisfied guests. This top-rated Bib Gourmand restaurant promises a culinary experience you will remember.

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 Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh), a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh) has charmed many with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 2,814 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Panda & Sons, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Panda & Sons captures hearts with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 1,617 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on The Dome, another local party gem in Edinburgh. This bar has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,433 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

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

On day 5, 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.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Edinburgh is the fantastic HMY Britannia. As an appreciated royal yacht and local gem in the area, HMY Britannia has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 9,023 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. This attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,765 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of National Museum of Scotland, a standout national museum and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Holyrood Palace. This official residence is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,746 visitor reviews.

Just around the corner lies the magnificent Holyrood Park, a popular archaeological site and attraction many visitors enjoy. More than 12,119 people have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

We recommend checking out all the tours and activities you can add to your package. Embarking on a tour is an excellent way of learning something new in Edinburgh, England.

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 Edinburgh. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the region’s most popular bars.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Dishoom Edinburgh. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Edinburgh has received a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from around 5,852 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Edinburgh, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,950 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Cafe Andaluz. This highly regarded restaurant in Edinburgh has earned a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 3,019 satisfied guests.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the region, Whiski Bar & Restaurant. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,669 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Chaophraya Thai Restaurant. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,238 customers.

The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 2,314 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.4 out of 5 stars average rating.

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!

On day 6 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in England and Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Edinburgh in Scotland and Preston in England. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Preston, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Something that makes Edinburgh the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding point of interest, Royal Mile. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 visitors.

The famous Camera Obscura is another remarkable sightseeing hotspot in the area. As one of Edinburgh's most remarkable sights, there's no wonder why around 13,536 travelers have rated this incredible visitor centre and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Edinburgh is also home to the extraordinary Edinburgh Castle, which boasts a 4.6 out of 5 star rating in 90,949 traveler reviews.

Another place you’ll want to visit is the captivating Dean Village. With an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from a total of 13,727 reviews, a visit to this wonderful village and tourist destination is truly a great idea.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Edinburgh, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Preston in England. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to England. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 43 min.

As you arrive in Edinburgh, it’s yet again time for a break from the road for some sightseeing and exploring. In this one-of-a-kind city in Scotland, you’ll find some of the area’s most outstanding sights.

In Edinburgh, the extraordinary Royal Mile awaits. This attraction is a valued point of interest that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 14,405 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Edinburgh is the spectacular Camera Obscura. This attraction is a visitor centre that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Edinburgh Castle. This local castle and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Dean Village is another attraction you might want to add to your Edinburgh exploration itinerary. This village is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,727 reviews.

Your destination has so much to offer to all kinds of travelers. Discover more about this place and add more excitement to your vacation in Edinburgh in England by embarking on popular tours and excursions. Joining tours will give you a deeper understanding of Preston’s history and culture while meeting other adventurers like you.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Preston. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

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 Preston. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Bistrot Pierre. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Preston has received a 4.3 out of 5-star rating from around 1,124 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Angelo's should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Preston, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 758 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at We Don't Give a Fork. This highly regarded restaurant in Preston has earned a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 611 satisfied guests.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Preston. At Turtle Bay Preston, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,728 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at The Cafe Bar, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 786 reviews.

Black Horse is also one of the best places in Preston where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 774 customers.

Take in the ambiance of Preston 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!

Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across England and Scotland. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to 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.

Feel the freedom as you navigate your way from Preston to London. Expect a journey of approximately 4 hours 32 min without stops.

When you reach Alrewas, that’s your cue to take a breather from the road and indulge in some sightseeing and adventure. Check out some of the top attractions in the village.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Alrewas is the magnificent National Memorial Arboretum. Around 12,026 visitors have rated this excellent arboretum and travel destination an average of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

Prepare for a great time when you reach Stafford. While in Stafford, you’ll soak in England’s rich culture while exploring its wonderful attractions.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Stafford today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Trentham Gardens. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 10,401 visitors.

Upon reaching Leavesden, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

In Leavesden, the extraordinary Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter awaits. This attraction is a valued exhibition room that boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 82,133 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Leavesden is the spectacular Diagon Alley. This attraction is a sightseeing destination that is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 600 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

To make your day special, check out all the available tours and tickets in the village!

Alrewas has something for every interest and travel budget.

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

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.

Make a reservation at Hawksmoor Borough, a popular dining spot in London. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 2,029 satisfied diners.

Make a reservation at The Ivy Kensington Brasserie while indulging in the charm of London. This restaurant offers a delicious menu reflected with a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, cherished by 2,416 discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the flavors of Rules, a treasured establishment in London. Its diverse menu promises to tantalize your palate and elevate your dining experience. Known for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,824 satisfied guests.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, The Red Lion, Parliament Street. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 3,534 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Cahoots London. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,678 customers.

The Ivy cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 2,597 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.4 out of 5 stars average rating.

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 8 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.

As your final day in England unfolds, don’t miss the chance for a last-minute shopping spree in London’s shopping district. Your accommodation’s convenient location near the city’s shopping area offers the luxury of time, so you don’t have to limit yourself from leisurely strolling its streets amidst a collection of establishments.

Look for the perfect gift for your loved ones back home, or buy yourself a little keepsake to remind you of 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 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 8-day European road trip in England and Scotland with fond memories. Safe travels!