9-Day Self-Drive Road Trip in Scotland and England With Itinerary from Edinburgh to Preston, London, and York

Wake up and see what day 2 of your great European road trip in Scotland and England has in store for you! You will be staying in Edinburgh for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Edinburgh, including the outstanding Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,765 reviews, this fascinating botanical garden and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Edinburgh is also home to the captivating Royal Mile, a local street considered one of the highlights of the city. About 14,405 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.7 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity.

The extraordinary National Museum Of Scotland is another unforgettable place you can visit on this leg of your journey in Edinburgh. This extraordinary museum and tourist hot spot boasts a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 45,476 travelers.

A trip to the wonderful Holyrood Park will inspire you. Visitors have rated their experience at this amazing park and attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 12,119 reviews.

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

Begin your culinary exploration in Edinburgh by securing a reservation at Heron. This renowned restaurant holds 1 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Condita, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover The Kitchin, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Cafe Royal, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, The Ensign Ewart provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Tonic offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 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 - Edinburgh in Scotland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Preston where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

A tour of Edinburgh is not complete without a visit to the famous Holyrood Palace. This incredible palace and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 17,746 travelers.

Make the most of your Edinburgh travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Camera Obscura. This museum and unique destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 travelers.

You can then move on to the incredible Scottish National Gallery for an experience worth remembering. This local art gallery and standout destination has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,079 visitors, with up to 660,741 people including this popular attraction in their Edinburgh tour itinerary each year.

After a long day of driving and exploring, you’ll check in at a top-recommended hotel in Preston of your choice.

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.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Ships And Giggles, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Black Horse provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Plug & Taps offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Take in the ambiance of Preston 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!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Eton in England. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in London, your home 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.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated castle and attraction in Eton — Windsor Castle. About 54,973 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, London. This car ride takes around 51 min.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Buckingham Palace. This outstanding palace and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 168,513 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Buckingham Palace is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating St James's Park is another of the town's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This park and tourist destination boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 56,264 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing monument, Big Ben. With an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 65,522 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in London. 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.

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

Dive into a culinary adventure like no other in London by booking a table at Sketch, The Lecture Room and Library. This popular restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of modern french cuisine. For another culinary dining option, venture to Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, celebrated for its delectable french menu. This acclaimed 3-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, ensuring an essential addition to your holiday itinerary. Seeking an alternative? Discover Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, a top local restaurant known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 3-star Michelin recognition, it promises an exceptional dining experience not to be missed.

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

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

Day 5 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful London. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the city for 2 nights more before hitting the road again.

In London, the extraordinary London Eye awaits. This attraction is a valued observation deck that boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 175,315 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in London is the spectacular Borough Market. This attraction is a food market that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 99,307 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing London Bridge. This local historical landmark and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 51,315 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Tower Of London is another attraction you might want to add to your London exploration itinerary. This castle is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 104,392 reviews and annual visitor count of approximately 2,741,126 people.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — Tower Bridge. More than a popular monument and attraction, Tower Bridge offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of London. Tower Bridge boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 156,250 traveler reviews.

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 lovely meal at Hawksmoor Guildhall, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Bill's Soho Restaurant is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Estiatorio Milos. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in London tonight.

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

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!

Wake up to day 6 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 Brentford 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!

A tour of London is not complete without a visit to the famous Hyde Park. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 128,167 travelers.

Make the most of your London travel adventure by seeing another popular site, the wonderful Regent's Park. This park and unique destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 44,964 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Brentford and set your GPS to Kensington. 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 20 min. Upon reaching Kensington, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Brentford is the fantastic Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. As an appreciated botanical garden and local gem in the area, Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 46,237 reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brentford, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kensington. This drive usually takes around 20 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Kensington, including the outstanding Victoria And Albert Museum. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 56,963 reviews and welcoming more than 3,932,738 visitors each year, this fascinating museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the town.

Kensington is also home to the captivating Science Museum, a local museum considered one of the highlights of the town. About 66,659 visitors have rated this incredible site with 4.5 out of 5 stars, proving its popularity. Each year, up to 2,989,000 people include this sightseeing spot in their travel itineraries.

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.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Merchant House London. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Artesian, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Jin Bo Law provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

As the night falls in London, 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.

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

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 British Museum is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This museum and tourist destination welcomes approximately 5,906,716 visitors every year and boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 151,665 travelers.

This day is also your chance to see the amazing wax museum, Madame Tussauds London. With an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 73,606 travelers, a trip to this wonderful site promises a memorable experience.

Set your GPS to Leavesden and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 42 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Leavesden beckons with new experiences!

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Leavesden today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 84,358 visitors.

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

As the sun sets on day 7 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through York's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of England to remember your trip by. After a fulfilling dinner, dive into the city’s local nightlife. Whether you prefer the bustling energy of popular pubs or want to take in the ambiance of a quiet bar, York has them.

Experience a symphony of flavors at Skosh in York by securing a reservation in advance. Renowned for its Bib Gourmand distinction, Skosh delights its guests with its exceptional variety of meals showcasing delicious modern british cuisine. For a palate-pleasing alternative, make sure to dine at Roots, acclaimed for its delectable modern specialties. This local 1-star Michelin establishment consistently satisfies guests, ensuring an unforgettable holiday experience.

Keep the evening going at The Habit Cafe Bar, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Shambles Tavern, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Pivní York, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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 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 York in England. In the evening, you’ll end up in Edinburgh, where you will stay for 1 night.

York Minster is a travelers’ favorite in York, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 19,508 visitors.

In York, don’t miss National Railway Museum, a great museum and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,938 reviews. Going here means you’ll be in the great company of 807,591 other travelers who visit this attraction every year.

After soaking in York’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Alnwick. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 2 hours 19 min. When you arrive in Alnwick, it's time to take a break from the road.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Alnwick, including the outstanding Alnwick Castle. Having an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,093 reviews, this fascinating castle and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

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

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 Angels with Bagpipes, 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 Rabble Taphouse and Grill, 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 Black Ivy, a hidden gem nestled in Edinburgh. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Hoot The Redeemer, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Albanach is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Thistle Street Bar also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Celebrate day 8 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!