One-Week Road Trip in Wales, England, and Scotland from Cardiff to Manchester, Edinburgh, Preston, and London

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 2 of your multi-country journey across Wales, England, and Scotland. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Cardiff in Wales. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Manchester where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Cardiff is the magnificent Cardiff Castle. Around 19,549 visitors have rated this excellent castle and travel destination an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

We also recommend you explore the amazing National Museum Cardiff on this leg of your adventure in Wales. This attraction is a well-known museum building that has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from around 8,980 travelers. Given this incredible site's popularity, it’s easy to understand why more than 373,191 people visit it every year.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Something that makes Cardiff the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding open-air museum, St Fagans National Museum Of History. This local gem has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,062 visitors and gets around 610,155 visits every year.

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

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

Dine in style at Premier Inn Manchester Central hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Fazenda Manchester boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Peaky Blinders Manchester. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Manchester.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Kimpton Clocktower Hotel, known for its inviting atmosphere. Corbieres Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Directors Box provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 1 stop. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Manchester in England. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Edinburgh, your home for 1 night.

Science And Industry Museum is a travelers’ favorite in Manchester, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 17,698 visitors. More than 830,000 people visit this extraordinary science museum and local gem every year to experience its uniqueness.

In Manchester, don’t miss Heaton Park, a great english country house and place to see in the city. This outstanding attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 14,359 reviews.

Set your GPS to Lancaster and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 58 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Lancaster beckons with new experiences!

Lancaster Castle is a travelers’ favorite in Lancaster, and today you’ll have the opportunity to discover it too! This one-of-a-kind attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,169 visitors.

After an exciting day of sightseeing, it’s time to check in at your accommodation in Edinburgh. 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 sun sets on day 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, prepare for a culinary journey. Navigate through Edinburgh's top restaurants and eateries, each offering a local taste of Scotland 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, Edinburgh has them.

Set out on a gastronomic journey in Edinburgh by reserving a table at Heron. Renowned for its 1-star Michelin recognition, this restaurant presents an outstanding menu of modern cuisine. For a different taste, head over to Condita, renowned for its delectable modern dishes. This distinguished 1-star Michelin-recipient is a favorite among guests, making it a worthy addition to your holiday plans. Craving more culinary excitement? Explore The Kitchin, a highly rated local gem known for its exquisite modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin acclaim, it promises a dining experience you won't want to miss. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Edinburgh.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Panda & Sons after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Cafe Royal for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, The Ensign Ewart is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Wales, England, and Scotland, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Edinburgh in Scotland. When you’re not exploring the city and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Preston, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated point of interest and attraction in Edinburgh — Royal Mile. About 14,405 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

The popular National Museum Of Scotland is another top sight in Edinburgh that locals and travelers often enjoy spending time at. This attraction is a well-loved national museum in the area, rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 45,476 visitors.

Edinburgh Castle is a spectacular castle and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Edinburgh, earning an impressive average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 90,949 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh. Because of its allure and charm, around 20,765 visitors have rated this attraction and botanical garden an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

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

In the evening, prepare to be amazed by Preston’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 Wales, England, and Scotland.

Enjoy a delicious meal at We Don't Give a Fork, a highly-rated dining destination in Preston. If you're eager to try something different, consider The Tea House, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Turtle Bay Preston. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Preston this evening.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Ships And Giggles offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Black Horse is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Plug & Taps is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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!

Dive into day 5 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland. Today's main destinations are Leavesden 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 2 nights.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Preston, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Leavesden may take around 3 hours 50 min. Upon your arrival in Leavesden, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Leavesden is the fantastic Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter. As an appreciated exhibition room and local gem in the area, Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making Of Harry Potter has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 84,358 reviews.

Westminster’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Leavesden behind. This drive usually takes around 49 min. Westminster welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Westminster is the fantastic Hyde Park. As an appreciated park and local gem in the area, Hyde Park has earned an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 128,167 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Westminster, 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 17 min. Upon your arrival in London, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in London is the fantastic Big Ben. As an appreciated cultural icon and local gem in the area, Big Ben has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 65,522 reviews.

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

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

Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at The American Bar, a top-rated dining spot in London. If you're in the mood for something new, try Cahoots London, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Bill's Soho Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in London.

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 Bar Polski. 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!

Greet day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to London for your remaining 1 night in the city 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 London in England.

One place travelers keep coming back to in London is the magnificent British Museum. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes over 5,906,716 travelers from across the world. Around 151,665 visitors have rated this excellent national museum and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

After soaking in London’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Kensington. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 21 min. When you arrive in Kensington, it's time to take a break from the road.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in London today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Tower Bridge. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 156,250 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Borough Market. This incredible attraction and building holds an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to 99,307 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to London, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Kensington. This drive usually takes around 21 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated castle and attraction in London — Tower Of London. About 104,392 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

If you're eager to sample culinary delights during your multi-country road trip in Wales, England, and Scotland, 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.

Don’t miss out on dining at Estiatorio Milos, a top-rated dining destination in London. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Palomar, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Berners Tavern. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in London this evening.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Artesian, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, American Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Old Shades offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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 7 of your multi-country road trip across Wales, England, and Scotland, 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 Cardiff, where you will stay for 1 night.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in London today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Trafalgar Square. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 123,506 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular National Gallery. This incredible attraction and art museum holds an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, thanks to 49,550 visitors. Up to 6,011,007 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Cardiff, Wales. This car ride takes around 2 hours 43 min.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Westminster today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding St James's Park. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 56,264 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular Buckingham Palace. This incredible attraction and royal palace holds an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to 168,513 visitors.

According to travelers in Westminster, the extraordinary Royal Albert Hall is a must-see attraction. This crowd-favorite destination and concert hall is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 39,115 visitors.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in Cardiff. 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 the lively vibes in central Cardiff. 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 Wales, England, and Scotland.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Cafe Citta, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Clayton Hotel Cardiff is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Holiday Inn Cardiff City Centre, an IHG Hotel. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cardiff tonight.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Great Western - Jd Wetherspoon, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Rum & Fizz provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Kongs Cardiff 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!