One-Week Road Trip in Scotland and England from Edinburgh to Preston, London, and Lancaster

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in Scotland and England begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring region 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 region’s rich history, breathtaking sights, and lively atmosphere with visits to the most popular attractions.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Edinburgh is the fantastic Royal Mile. As an appreciated point of interest and local gem in the area, Royal Mile has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 14,405 reviews.

After a long journey to Edinburgh, we're here to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable start to your road trip adventure. Your first accommodation will be located in central Edinburgh, making sightseeing in the region effortless.

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 region’s culinary and nightlife hotspots to enhance your experience during your multi-country vacation in Scotland and England.

Discover an unparalleled culinary experience at Heron, a restaurant perfect to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence. This 1-star Michelin restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature modern meals.

Indulge in the exquisite flavors at a 1-star Michelin restaurant in Edinburgh, Condita. At this Bib Gourmand awardee, savor a combination of exceptional flavors with a memorable dining experience. This renowned restaurant’s meal selection includes its signature modern dishes, which are sure to tickle your taste buds.

Another culinary gem in Edinburgh you shouldn’t miss is The Kitchin. Enjoy a menu that has earned it a prestigious 1-star Michelin rating. Delivering a food experience like no other, this Bib Gourmand restaurant’s modern menu and exceptional service make it a must-visit destination for those seeking exceptional dining in the area.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh), a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the region. Makars Gourmet Mash Bar (Edinburgh) boasts an impressive 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 2,814 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Panda & Sons, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Panda & Sons has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,617 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, The Dome. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.6 out of 5-star from 1,617 customers.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your multi-country journey across Scotland and England. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 2 vibrant destinations - Edinburgh in Scotland and Preston in England. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Preston. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable National Museum of Scotland. This outstanding national museum and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 45,476 travelers, a visit to the remarkable National Museum of Scotland is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Edinburgh Castle is another of the region's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This castle and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing botanical garden, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

The top-rated Holyrood Palace, an outstanding national museum, is one place you should visit while in Edinburgh considering its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and journey to your next stop in England. Turn on the radio and notice the scenic views transition from Scotland’s Edinburgh to the enchanting landscapes of Preston. Keep in mind that your travel time may take around 3 hours 35 min without traffic disruptions.

Make the most of your vacation by joining activities and tours that let you discover what else Edinburgh 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 Scotland. Browse all of your options and reserve your slot before our favorites get fully booked.

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.

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

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.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Turtle Bay Preston, claiming it’s one of the best in the city. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,728 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is The Cafe Bar. It is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 786 customers.

Black Horse is a place where you can easily spend an hour or two of fun or relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 774 customers.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 3 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead in England. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in London. London will be your home for 3 nights.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Preston, you’ll hit the road in the direction of London. This drive usually takes around 4 hours 32 min.

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

In Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, the extraordinary Windsor Castle awaits. This attraction is a valued historic house museum that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 53,263 travelers' reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead, you’ll hit the road in the direction of London. This drive usually takes around 50 min.

Elevate your experience in Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead by engaging in exhilarating activities and joining tours that uncover the hidden wonders of this beautiful region.

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.

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.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along 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.

Make a reservation at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square, a popular dining spot in London. Its reputation for being a popular dining spot shines through its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 4,454 satisfied diners.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Scarfes Bar, one of the top bars in the city. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Scarfes Bar has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 883 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at The Connaught Bar, a crowd-favorite. Around 654 customers have rated their experience at The Connaught Bar an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

As the night falls in London, take a moment to savor the experiences of the day. Wash away your fatigue with a drink, or lay back and relax at your hotel, and look forward to another thrilling day of your multi-country journey across Europe.

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in Scotland and England has in store for you! You will be staying in London for 2 nights before continuing your journey to the next destination.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated national museum and attraction in London — British Museum. About 148,750 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular Big Ben is another top sight in London that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved cultural icon in the area, rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 61,373 visitors.

London Eye is a spectacular ferris wheel and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in London, earning an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 171,401 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Tower Bridge. Because of its allure and charm, around 151,949 visitors have rated this attraction and bascule bridge an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Discover the allure of Tower of London, drawing in over 2,741,126 visitors annually. Echoing its popularity, 101,481 travelers have awarded this famous castle and sightseeing spot an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

To double the fun and excitement on your vacation in Scotland, we also recommend adding tours to your travel itinerary. Tours are a great way to engage in immersive activities, meet other vacationers like you, and experience London's unique culture.

This fantastic excursion will show you around famous sights in London.

If you've been looking forward to all the culinary delights you’ll get the opportunity to try along 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.

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 5, you will wake up in London with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 1 night left in London before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Scotland and England.

One place travelers keep coming back to in London is the magnificent Royal Albert Hall. Around 37,841 visitors have rated this excellent concert hall and travel destination an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing Science Museum on this leg of your adventure in England. This attraction is a well-known science museum that has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 65,368 travelers. Given this incredible site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 2,989,000 people visit it every year.

The remarkable Borough Market is known to be one of the best places to visit in London, and its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 95,151 traveler reviews is proof.

Dive deeper into London by exploring the captivating London Bridge. With a stellar average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 49,698 travelers, make sure this wonderful site is on your London exploration list!

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 London in Scotland by embarking on popular tours and excursions. Joining tours will give you a deeper understanding of London’s history and culture while meeting other adventurers like you.

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

Have a delightful culinary experience when you dine at Rules. Favored by many foreign travelers and locals, this restaurant in London boasts a carefully curated and enticing menu. Its delectable dishes have earned it an impressive rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from around 1,824 visitors.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned The Red Lion, Parliament Street, a must-visit hotspot in the city of London. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars, backed by 3,534 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Cahoots London, consistently rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to The Ivy, one of the top-rated bars in London, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,597 satisfied customers.

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 just relaxing.

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.

A tour of London is not complete without a visit to the famous Trafalgar Square. This incredible square and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 121,847 travelers.

Make the most of your London travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Madame Tussauds London. This wax museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 71,843 travelers.

Get comfortable in your rental car and blast some good music as you continue your road trip in Europe, and drive to your next destination, Lancaster. This car ride takes around 4 hours 29 min.

Take a well-deserved pause from the road when you arrive in London. This is your chance to tour the region’s most remarkable sights and top-rated attractions, showcasing the area’s distinct charm.

To make your fun escapade in London, Scotland even more exciting, we recommend you check out all the tours and activities you can add to your itinerary. Joining tours is an incredible way to visit wonderful places and meet new friends.

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

As the sun dips under the horizon, freshen up and head out to discover the best dining spots in Lancaster. 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.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, The Fenwick. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 567 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous The Quarterhouse. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 213 customers.

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

On day 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Scotland and England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Falkirk in Scotland. When you’re not exploring the region and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Edinburgh, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Edinburgh’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Lancaster behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 53 min.

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 Falkirk, Scotland.

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

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.

Don't forget to book a table at Dishoom Edinburgh, a well-known eatery in Edinburgh. This popular restaurant and its sumptuous cuisine have won the hearts of food lovers. Its commitment to a delicious menu is evident in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 5,852 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre while exploring Edinburgh. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 2,950 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Cafe Andaluz, a popular restaurant in Edinburgh. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Its reputation is reflected in its 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,019 discerning diners.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to Whiski Bar & Restaurant, a top-notch spot in the region scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, Whiski Bar & Restaurant has charmed many with its 4.4 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 2,669 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Chaophraya Thai Restaurant captures hearts with its 4.5 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 2,238 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, another local party gem in Edinburgh. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,314 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity 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!

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.

As you approach the end of your journey in Scotland, take a moment for some retail therapy in Edinburgh’s celebrated shopping district, Shopping Area. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the region’s commercial hubs and wander through its diverse range of local shops without rushing.

Whether you’re on a hunt for an ideal present to give to your friends or family or looking for a personal memento to remind you of Scotland, a variety of items are waiting for you.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Edinburgh is the fantastic Dean Village. As an appreciated village and local gem in the area, Dean Village has earned an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 13,727 reviews.

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!