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

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Photo of the scenic Dean Village in a sunny afternoon, in Edinburgh, Scotland.
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Explore Scotland and England on an epic 8-day European road trip. Edinburgh, Cambuskenneth, Stirling, Bardon Mill, Haltwhistle, 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 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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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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Edinburgh. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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 city’s most popular bars.

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a top-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at The Theatre Royal Bar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Keep the evening going at Nightcap - Cocktail Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Juniper Edinburgh, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Panda & Sons, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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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On day 2, you will wake up in Edinburgh with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in Edinburgh before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Scotland and England.

Make sure to visit Leith, a popular neighborhood in Edinburgh. Spend some time wandering around the area and soak in its distinctive charm. You’ll also discover that several of the city’s must-see attractions are just around the corner. You can also explore Old Town today, a neighborhood that’s well worth a visit.

Get ready for a day filled with fun adventures, breathtaking views, and picturesque spots in the charming city of Edinburgh. Your adventure starts at Holyrood Palace, a popular local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is National Museum Of Scotland. This captivating museum is known for its picture-perfect appeal.

After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Edinburgh's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Edinburgh Castle. This awe-inspiring castle offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Dean Village is also worth visiting.

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 delicious dinner at Premier Inn Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street) hotel, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Novotel Edinburgh Centre offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Tigerlily. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Cafe Royal, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to The Ensign Ewart. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Tonic, another top-rated place in the area.

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 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!

Today, you'll explore some of the most beautiful places in Edinburgh, including a monument, a castle, and an art installation. Start your day with a visit to Wallace Monument. This well-known monument is a must-visit in the village. When you’re ready for your next discovery, continue to Stirling Castle, which may be one of the most culturally significant places you will experience today.

One of the best things about exploring Edinburgh on a self-guided tour is that you set the pace. There’s plenty of time for detours and discovering hidden gems. When you’re ready for your next stop, make your way to Tom Weir Statue, a beloved monument in the village. If you’re up for more discoveries, don’t forget to reserve some time for The Kelpies.

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Angels with Bagpipes, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rabble Taphouse and Grill offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Black Ivy is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Edinburgh.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Hoot The Redeemer after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Albanach, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Thistle Street Bar also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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 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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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 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 - Bardon Mill in England. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Windermere where you'll spend 2 nights of well-deserved relaxation.

Set out on a day brimming with family-friendly attractions, scenic views, and picturesque spots. Start at the curiosity-inducing Castra Vindolanda, a breathtaking archeological site in Edinburgh. Next, go to Milecastle 42 - Hadrian's Wall.

After visiting Castra Vindolanda and Milecastle 42 - Hadrian's Wall, have a stroll along Edinburgh's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Windermere. This serene lake offers a unique experience.

Take some time off from the road, it’s time to check in at a top-rated stay in Windermere. 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 Windermere. 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.

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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Greet day 5 of your multi-country road trip across Scotland and England with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Windermere for your remaining 1 night in the town later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Grasmere in England.

Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and historic treasures. Next, go to Keswick Museum.

After visiting National Trust - Allan Bank And Grasmere and Keswick Museum, have a stroll along Windermere's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Castlerigg Stone Circle. This picture-perfect archeological site offers a unique experience.

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

Take in the ambiance of Windermere 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!

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

Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Windermere, including a church, a market, a castle, a museum and much more! Start your adventure at York Minster. This popular church is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Shambles Market located in Windermere for another exciting encounter.

Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Clifford's Tower, York. Its breathtaking features will captivate you. After the castle, continue your tour of the city with a visit to Jorvik Viking Centre. Visitors usually appreciate the historic features of this museum.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Yakamoz, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try House Of The Trembling Madness? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Turtle Bay York as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in York.

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

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 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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Dive into day 7 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Scotland and England. Today's main destinations are Alnwick 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.

Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in York allows for both. Start by heading to The Alnwick Garden. This increasingly popular botanical garden provides an insightful glimpse into the town's identity. Next, discover Alnwick Castle, an instagrammable castle, promising a delightful encounter.

Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Grace Darling Museum, a worthwhile museum.

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.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at The Angels Share Hotel and Bar, a highly-rated dining destination in Edinburgh. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Newsroom Bar & Eatery, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Premier Inn Edinburgh Leith Waterfront hotel. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Edinburgh this evening.

Round off your dining experience by visiting The Waverley Bar, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Royal Oak, a bar catering to every mood and preference. The Oxford Bar likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Celebrate day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

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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.

On your last day in Scotland, take time to indulge in shopping at Edinburgh’s popular marketplace, Grassmarket. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Royal Mile. This locally renowned 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 in the mood to try something new, consider Amber Restaurant, another top spot with a mouthwatering 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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Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

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Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

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