6-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Scotland and England With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Stirling, Glasgow, and Windermere
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Description
Explore Scotland and England on an epic 6-day European road trip. Edinburgh, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Keswick, Near Sawrey, and Windermere await!
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 1 night 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, Glasgow, and Gretna Green, 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 Keswick, Near Sawrey, Windermere, and York, 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 Keswick’s Castlerigg Stone Circle. 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 6-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!
Itinerary summary
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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 1 night.
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.
As the sun sets on day 1 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 city’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.
Dine in style at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Chaophraya Thai Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out The Theatre Royal Bar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Edinburgh.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Nightcap - Cocktail Bar stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Juniper Edinburgh offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Panda & Sons is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
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
- Stirling
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Drive 77 km, 1 hour 56 min
- Edinburgh Castle
- The National Wallace Monument
- Stirling Castle
- Stirling, Old Bridge
- Causewayhead Park
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On day 2 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 Edinburgh in Scotland. In the evening, you’ll end up in Stirling, where you will stay for 1 night.
Immerse yourself in Edinburgh’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Edinburgh Castle. This historic castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the picture-perfect features of Wallace Monument, a must-visit monument in the city.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Stirling Castle, a captivating castle. For a change of scene, check out Stirling, Old Bridge, known for its historic features. We also recommend visiting Causewayhead Park. This park is a must for anyone looking to experience the city to the fullest.
After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Stirling. 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 Scotland and England, you'll be excited to head out for dinner and get a taste of the local cuisine in Stirling. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Mint leaf Nepalese and indian restaurant, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hermanns offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Allan Park - pub, restaurant & coffee house. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Stirling.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Curly Coo Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Settle Inn is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, No 2 Baker Street offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Take in the ambiance of Stirling 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
- Stirling
- Glasgow
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Drive 81 km, 1 hour 58 min
- Tom Weir Statue
- Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum
- Kelvingrove Park
- Glasgow Cathedral
- George Square
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Balmaha in Scotland. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Glasgow, your home for 1 night.
Today’s route brings fun adventures, breathtaking views, and photo-friendly spots. The first attraction of today is Tom Weir Statue. This beloved monument is a symbolic place to see in Stirling. Continue your discovery at Kelvingrove Art Gallery And Museum, an instagrammable museum with stories to tell.
As you stroll around Stirling, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Kelvingrove Park. This interesting park offers a noteworthy encounter with Stirling. Next, make your way to Glasgow Cathedral to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit George Square, a notable public square that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Stirling.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Glasgow.
As the sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Glasgow's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Scotland 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, Glasgow has them.
Enjoy a lovely meal at The Piper Whisky Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The National Piping Centre is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Pasha Glasgow. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Glasgow tonight.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to The Gallery Bar, known for its inviting atmosphere. Steps Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Bar 91 provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
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!
Day 4
- Glasgow
- Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 277 km, 4 hours 6 min
- Courtship Maze
- Castlerigg stone circle
- National Trust - Hill Top
- Windermere
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On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Scotland and England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Gretna Green in Scotland and Keswick in England. When you’re not exploring the town and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Windermere, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Glasgow allows for both. Start by heading to Courtship Maze. This worthwhile maze provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Castlerigg Stone Circle, a culturally significant archeological site, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to National Trust - Hill Top, an intriguing museum. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the underrated Windermere.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Windermere. 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 sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Windermere. 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.
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 5
- Bowness-on-Windermere
- Edinburgh
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Drive 505 km, 6 hours 53 min
- National Railway Museum York
- Shambles Market
- Red Tower
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Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Scotland and England. Today's main destinations are York 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 Edinburgh. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Windermere is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures! Start at National Railway Museum, a locally renowned museum that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Shambles Market, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Red Tower. This historical landmark is one of the city’s most frequently visited spots.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Edinburgh of your choice.
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.
Savor the flavors at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Novotel Edinburgh Centre beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Tigerlily. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Edinburgh tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Cafe Royal, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Ensign Ewart is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Tonic ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
As the night falls in Edinburgh, 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
- Edinburgh - Departure day
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- The Royal Mile
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On day 6 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.
As your final day in Scotland unfolds, enjoy a last-minute shopping spree in Edinburgh's best shopping area, Grassmarket. Enjoy finding the perfect gift or keepsake to remind you of your wonderful trip to Scotland.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Royal Mile. This well-known 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.
If you're eager to try something different, consider Rabble Taphouse and Grill, another top spot with a tantalizing 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 6-day European road trip in Scotland and England with fond memories. Safe travels!
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