One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Scotland and England With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Preston, London, and Lancaster
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Pack your bags and hit the road for the ultimate 8-day Euro trip extravaganza! This multi-country adventure through the Scotland and England guarantees unforgettable experiences 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 2 nights in Scotland and 5 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, Larbert, Falkirk, 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 Preston, Eton, London, Kensington, Upper Sundon, and Lancaster, where every street tells a story.
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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Edinburgh - Arrival day
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- The Royal Mile
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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.
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.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, 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 Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, 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 The Theatre Royal Bar, 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 Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Juniper Edinburgh offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Panda & Sons. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
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
- Preston
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Drive 308 km, 4 hours 25 min
- National Museum of Scotland
- Edinburgh Castle
- Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh
- Holyrood Palace
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 2 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 Preston, your home for 1 night.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated museum and attraction in Edinburgh — National Museum Of Scotland. About 45,476 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
The popular Edinburgh Castle is another top sight in Edinburgh that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved castle in the area, rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 visitors.
Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a spectacular botanical garden and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Edinburgh, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 enchanted visitors.
As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Holyrood Palace. Because of its allure and charm, around 17,746 visitors have rated this attraction and palace an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
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, England. Witness the landscapes transform as you cross the border to England. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 35 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.
Relax your senses after a day of exhilarating activities and fun exploration. Retreat to one of the best accommodations in Preston.
As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Preston. 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.
Don’t miss out on dining at We Don't Give a Fork, a top-rated dining destination in Preston. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Tea House, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turtle Bay Preston. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Preston this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Ships And Giggles, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Black Horse, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Plug & Taps 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!
Day 3
- Preston
- Eton
- London
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Drive 384 km, 4 hours 59 min
- Windsor Castle
- Hyde Park
- Buckingham Palace
- St James's Park
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Dive into day 3 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Scotland and England. Today's main destinations are Eton 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 3 nights.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Eton. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Something that makes Eton the perfect holiday destination is that the town offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding castle, Windsor Castle. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 54,973 visitors.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Eton, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to London may take around 46 min. Upon your arrival in London, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in London — Hyde Park. About 128,167 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
The popular Buckingham Palace is another top sight in London that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved palace in the area, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 168,513 visitors.
St James's Park is a spectacular park and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in London, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 56,264 enchanted visitors.
After soaking in Eton’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: London. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 46 min. When you arrive in London, it's time to take a break from the road.
This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.
Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in London. Choose a hotel where you can gently let go of the day’s excitement and enjoy some peace and relaxation.
By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central London. From mouthwatering restaurants to happening bars, we've got the inside scoop on where to eat and drink at this stop on your multi-country road trip across Scotland and England.
Have a memorable dining experience in London by booking a table at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library, renowned as a 3-star Michelin restaurant presenting an exceptional modern french menu. For a different culinary experience in London, Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester shines as one of the top destinations, known for its delicious french cuisine. This 3-star Michelin-awardee earns consistently high praises from previous guests, making it a must-visit addition to your holiday experience. If you're looking for an alternative, Hélène Darroze at The Connaught is known as a top local spot for its delicious modern cuisine in London. This 3-star Michelin awardee is a highly recommended choice for an unforgettable meal.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Bar Américain, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The Connaught Bar offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Juno Rooms. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Scotland and England! Enjoy your evening in London to the fullest by mingling with the locals at a bar, taking a stroll around the city center, or simply relaxing.
Day 4
- London
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Drive 14 km, 1 hour 8 min
- British Museum
- Big Ben
- lastminute.com London Eye
- Tower Bridge
- Tower of London
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On day 4, you will wake up in London with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in London before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Scotland and England.
Explore multiple popular travel destinations in London today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding British Museum. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,665 visitors and attracts around 5,906,716 curious travelers annually.
Next, discover the charms of the popular Big Ben. This incredible attraction and monument holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 65,522 visitors.
According to travelers in London, the extraordinary London Eye is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and observation deck is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 175,315 visitors.
As the day moves along, don’t miss out the incredible monument, Tower Bridge. Up to 156,250 visitors have rated it an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
If you’re up for another attraction, check out the popular castle, Tower Of London. This attraction is rated an average 4.6 out of 5 stars among 104,392 visitors. It draws in around 2,741,126 people each year.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a highly-rated dining destination in London. If you're eager to try something different, consider Bill's Soho Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Estiatorio Milos. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Lyaness, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Bar Polski provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Buckingham Arms offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.
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
- London
- Kensington
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Drive 15 km, 1 hour 12 min
- Royal Albert Hall
- Science Museum
- Victoria and Albert Museum
- Borough Market
- London Bridge
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Wake up to day 5 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 Kensington in England. With 1 night left in London, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the city’s surroundings!
One place travelers keep coming back to in London is the magnificent Borough Market. Around 99,307 visitors have rated this excellent food market and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.
We also recommend you explore the amazing London Bridge on this leg of your adventure in England. This attraction is a well-known historical landmark that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 51,315 travelers.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Kensington and set your GPS to London. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 28 min. Upon reaching London, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Royal Albert Hall is a travelers’ favorite in Kensington, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 39,115 visitors.
In Kensington, don’t miss Science Museum, a great museum and place to see in the town. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 66,659 reviews. Going here means you’ll be in the great company of 2,989,000 other travelers who visit this attraction every year.
Check other top attractions in Kensington off your list when you visit the wonderful Victoria And Albert Museum. This popular sight is an outstanding museum, rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 56,963 travelers. Approximately 3,932,738 people visit this attraction each year.
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 London. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.
Savor the flavors at The Palomar, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Berners Tavern beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Goodman City. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in London tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Merchant House London, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Artesian offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Jin Bo Law. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Celebrate day 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 6
- London
- Upper Sundon
- Lancaster
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Drive 395 km, 4 hours 48 min
- Trafalgar Square
- Madame Tussauds London
- Sundon Hills Country Park
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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 London in England. In the evening, you’ll end up in Lancaster, where you will stay for 1 night.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Trafalgar Square. This outstanding public square and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.6 stars out of 5 from 123,506 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Trafalgar Square is worth pages in your travel diary.
The fascinating Madame Tussauds London is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This wax museum and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 73,606 travelers.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upper Sundon, 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 London to Upper Sundon may take around 57 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Upper Sundon, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Sundon Hills Country Park. This outstanding park and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 173 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Sundon Hills Country Park is worth pages in your travel diary.
After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Lancaster. 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 Lancaster. After a delicious dinner, experience the local nightlife or unwind at one of the city’s most popular bars.
Make sure to reserve a table at The Quarterhouse, an iconic dining spot in Lancaster. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Golden Lion, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.
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
- Lancaster
- Larbert
- Falkirk
- Skinflats
- Edinburgh
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Drive 335 km, 4 hours 18 min
- Falkirk Wheel
- Callendar House
- The Kelpies
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 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 - Larbert in Scotland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Edinburgh where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Lancaster and set your GPS to Larbert, Scotland. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 2 hours 57 min. Upon reaching Larbert, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
A tour of Larbert is not complete without a visit to the famous Falkirk Wheel. This incredible monument and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,951 travelers.
When you’ve had your share of Larbert, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Falkirk. Your travel time is around 12 min.
In Falkirk, the extraordinary Callendar House awaits. This attraction is a valued museum that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,815 travelers' reviews.
Skinflats’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Falkirk behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Skinflats welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
In Skinflats, the extraordinary The Kelpies awaits. This attraction is a valued art installation that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 27,904 travelers' reviews.
After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Edinburgh of your choice.
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.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Edinburgh by securing a table at Heron. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Condita, famous for its scrumptious modern dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover The Kitchin, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Edinburgh. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Cap off your dinner by heading to Cafe Royal, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The Ensign Ewart is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Tonic is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
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 8
- Edinburgh - Departure day
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- Dean Village
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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.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
A tour of Edinburgh is not complete without a visit to the famous Dean Village. This incredible historical landmark and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,727 travelers.
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.
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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