One-Week Self-Drive Road Trip in Scotland and England With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Windermere and York

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Get ready for an exhilarating 8-day European road trip. This trip will take you through Scotland and England and immerse you in the diverse tapestry of European culture.

With this ultimate European tour package, you'll experience the essence of 2 incredible countries, each offering a tapestry of experiences that will leave you with lasting memories. You'll stay 4 nights in Scotland and 3 nights in England.

In the first leg of your journey, you'll find yourself in the heart of Scotland, a land filled with treasures waiting to be discovered. You’ll collect your chosen rental car in the city of Edinburgh and begin your adventure from there. Explore Edinburgh, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Balmaha, and Skinflats, where picturesque vistas and cultural gems await your exploration.

Next, prepare to be mesmerized by the diverse and vibrant landscapes of England. Immerse yourself in the allure of Bardon Mill, Haltwhistle, Windermere, Grasmere, Keswick, York, Alnwick, and Bamburgh, where every street tells a story.

Your multi-country road trip brings you close to some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and landmarks, such as Bardon Mill’s Castra Vindolanda. From must-see attractions to breathtaking viewpoints, this meticulously crafted itinerary promises you a glimpse into the unique features of this region in Europe.

Throughout your tour, you’ll stay at some of the best accommodations along your route. Our recommendations always include options with varying levels of comfort, ranging from 3 to 5-star hotels that cater to various preferences and budgets.

Your ultimate multi-country road trip across Scotland and England will not be complete without indulging in some retail therapy! Embark on a quest for a rare souvenir in each destination. Beyond the thrill of buying unique goods, it’s also an amazing opportunity to immerse yourself in local customs and interact with friendly locals at every stop.

By booking this holiday package, you can save yourself from the tedious task of researching and planning your road trip in Europe. We'll handle all the travel arrangements for your 8-day self-drive adventure in Scotland and England. With our expertise, you can enjoy a hassle-free experience and focus on immersing yourself in incredible destinations without the stress of organizing every detail. This holiday deal also comes with 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide accessible via our mobile app to assist you throughout your journey.

Discover breathtaking landscapes, diverse cultures, and iconic landmarks in multiple European countries on one epic road trip! Travel across borders and experience the freedom of the open road as you create lifelong memories in Scotland and England.

Choose your travel dates today and start planning your unforgettable multi-country road trip with Guide to Europe!

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Driver’s age is 30 - 65
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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Calton Hill
Holyrood PalaceNational Museum of ScotlandEdinburgh CastleDean VillageLeithOld Town
The National Wallace MonumentStirling CastleTom Weir StatueThe Kelpies
VindolandaMilecastle 42 - Hadrian's WallWindermere
National Trust - Allan Bank and GrasmereKeswick MuseumCastlerigg stone circle
York MinsterShambles MarketClifford's Tower, YorkJorvik Viking Centre
The Alnwick GardenAlnwick CastleRNLI Grace Darling Museum
The Royal Mile

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Day 1

Day 1

  • Edinburgh - Arrival day
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  • Calton Hill
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Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Scotland and England begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of Edinburgh in Scotland. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in Edinburgh for 3 nights.

Catch an early flight to Scotland to enjoy as much time as possible exploring Edinburgh before it’s time to hit the road and drive to your next destination. Discover the city’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

Edinburgh is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Calton Hill, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Find your way to your hotel in Edinburgh. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

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 city’s most recommended bars.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Chaophraya Thai Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at The Theatre Royal Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Edinburgh.

After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, known for its lively atmosphere. Juniper Edinburgh is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, Panda & Sons offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the 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.

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Day 2

Day 2

  • Edinburgh
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Drive 9 km, 1 hour 3 min

  • Holyrood Palace
  • National Museum of Scotland
  • Edinburgh Castle
  • Dean Village
  • Leith
  • Old Town
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Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Edinburgh. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

Set aside time today to explore Leith, a standout neighborhood that reflects the essence of the city. While you're there, you'll also be within reach of some of the city's top landmarks, making it easy to maximize your day. You might also want to visit Old Town, a neighborhood offering another perspective on the city.

A blend of fun adventures, scenic views, and picturesque spots await you in Edinburgh on today’s itinerary. First up is the well-known palace, Holyrood Palace. Afterward, continue to National Museum Of Scotland, a museum every traveler should visit.

As you explore Edinburgh’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Edinburgh Castle. This extraordinary castle is an essential stop. Following that, head to Dean Village, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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 Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, 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 Novotel Edinburgh Centre, 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 Tigerlily, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Cafe Royal is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Ensign Ewart, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Tonic. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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

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Day 3

Day 3

  • Edinburgh
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Drive 226 km, 3 hours 51 min

  • The National Wallace Monument
  • Stirling Castle
  • Tom Weir Statue
  • The Kelpies
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On day 3 of your European tour in Scotland and England, you’ll start and end your day in Cambuskenneth, but spend the day exploring what’s beyond the village. Since you will return to Edinburgh for 1 night more, there’s no need to rush. Experience Cambuskenneth in Scotland to the fullest today with this curated day itinerary!

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Edinburgh, including a monument, a castle, and an art installation. Start your day at Wallace Monument. This picture-perfect monument is a popular place to see in Edinburgh. Then, wander over to Stirling Castle. If instagrammable sites excite you, this castle will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Tom Weir Statue. This symbolic monument is a favorite among visitors.

Edinburgh offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, The Kelpies is a captivating spot in the village that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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.

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Angels with Bagpipes, a top-rated dining spot in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood for something new, try Rabble Taphouse and Grill, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Black Ivy. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Edinburgh.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Hoot The Redeemer is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Albanach, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Thistle Street Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

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.

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Day 4

Day 4

  • Edinburgh
  • Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 316 km, 5 hours 26 min

  • Vindolanda
  • Milecastle 42 - Hadrian's Wall
  • Windermere
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On day 4 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 Bardon Mill in England. In the evening, you’ll end up in Windermere, where you will stay for 2 nights.

Edinburgh is home to plenty of attractions that offer family-friendly attractions, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots! Start at Castra Vindolanda, an increasingly popular archeological site that is worthwhile a visit in the village. Nearby, you’ll find Milecastle 42 - Hadrian's Wall, enchanting visitors with its UNESCO world heritage-listed appeal. Continue your exploration at Windermere. This lake is one of the village’s most frequently visited spots.

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

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 Windermere'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 town’s most recommended bars.

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!

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Day 5

Day 5

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
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Drive 72 km, 1 hour 35 min

  • National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
  • Keswick Museum
  • Castlerigg stone circle
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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 Grasmere in England. With 1 night left in Windermere, we encourage you to seize the day and discover the unexplored beauty of the town’s surroundings!

Start by visiting National Trust - Allan Bank And Grasmere, a prime spot to begin your journey. Next on your list is Keswick Museum, another must-visit landmark and intriguing museum renowned for its photogenic features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Windermere by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Castlerigg Stone Circle. This picture-perfect archeological site is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Windermere experience.

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Windermere’s regional flavors and culminate your day with a toast. We’ve curated a guide to the town’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Scotland and England.

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!

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Day 6

Day 6

  • Bowness-on-Windermere
  • York
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Drive 181 km, 2 hours 50 min

  • York Minster
  • Shambles Market
  • Clifford's Tower, York
  • Jorvik Viking Centre
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Dive into day 6 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 York. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Get ready to discover some of the most iconic wonders in Windermere, including a church, a market, a castle, a museum and much more! Start your day at York Minster. This breathtaking church is a well-known place to see in Windermere. Then, wander over to Shambles Market. If eye-catching sites excite you, this market will be right up your alley. Nearby, you’ll also find Clifford's Tower, York. This breathtaking castle is a favorite among visitors.

Windermere offers plenty to explore, ensuring every moment of your visit is filled with excitement and discovery. If you're up for more, Jorvik Viking Centre is a locally renowned spot in the city that will captivate you with its unique charm.

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

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

Make sure to reserve a table at Yakamoz, an iconic dining spot in York. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of House Of The Trembling Madness, a popular restaurant in York. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Turtle Bay York, a hidden gem nestled in York. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Habit Cafe Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Shambles Tavern, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Pivní York likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 7

Day 7

  • York
  • Edinburgh
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Drive 339 km, 4 hours 28 min

  • The Alnwick Garden
  • Alnwick Castle
  • RNLI Grace Darling Museum
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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 - Alnwick in England. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Edinburgh where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

Start by visiting The Alnwick Garden, a prime spot to begin your journey. This remarkable botanical garden is sure to impress. Next on your list is Alnwick Castle, another must-visit landmark and well-known castle renowned for its breathtaking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of York by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Grace Darling Museum. This heritage-rich museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full York experience.

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.

By dinnertime, you’ll be ready to savor the tastiest bites and enjoy the lively vibes in central Edinburgh. 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.

Enjoy a lovely meal at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, The Newsroom Bar & Eatery is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Edinburgh tonight.

Continue your lively evening at The Waverley Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Royal Oak is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, The Oxford Bar ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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!

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Day 8

Day 8

  • Edinburgh - Departure day
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  • The Royal Mile
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On day 8 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of Edinburgh before it’s time to leave.

Depending on how much time you have before your departure, you may want to engage in some last-minute shopping or souvenir hunting. Get some unique items to remind you of your great European road trip across Scotland and England. If shopping isn’t your thing, visit some of the lesser-known attractions you have yet to discover.

Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Edinburgh’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Grassmarket. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Royal Mile. This interesting street is a popular place to see in the city.

Get a last taste of Scotland’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in Edinburgh and enjoy what may be your last vacation meal of this trip. Look forward to recreating these distinct culinary experiences in your own kitchen later to remind you of your unforgettable road trip across Scotland and England.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Fishers In The City, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Amber Restaurant? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.

The time has come to say farewell to Edinburgh for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 8-day European road trip in Scotland and England with fond memories. Safe travels!

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