7-Day Road Trip in England and Scotland from London to Leeds, Edinburgh, and Preston

Your unforgettable multi-country road trip in England and Scotland begins the moment you arrive in the awe-inspiring city of London in England. You’ll check in at a top-rated hotel and stay in London for 1 night.

Catch an early flight to England to enjoy as much time as possible exploring London 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.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in London today.

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

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.

Don't miss out on experiencing The Wolseley, a renowned dining spot in London. This restaurant's rich flavors have left a lasting impression on diners. Its dedication to culinary perfection is evident in its 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 5,980 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at Burger & Lobster Leicester Square while immersing yourself in London. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,454 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Hawksmoor Air Street, a beloved dining establishment within London. Its exquisite menu promises to tantalize your taste buds and transport you to culinary bliss. Renowned for its exceptional service, it has earned a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,216 satisfied customers.

For a sip of relaxation, head over to The Connaught Bar, a top-notch spot in the city scene. Whether you're unwinding solo or with pals, The Connaught Bar has charmed many with its 4.7 out of 5-star rating, as attested by 654 happy guests.

Or, join the buzz at Hawksmoor Seven Dials, where locals and fellow explorers gather for good times and good chats. Hawksmoor Seven Dials captures hearts with its 4.6 out of 5-star rating, drawing acclaim from 3,084 merry-makers.

And don't miss out on The Red Lion, Parliament Street, another local party gem in London. This bar has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,534 reviews, highlighting its charm and popularity in the area.

Your multi-country road trip in England and Scotland 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.

On day 2 of your multi-country road trip across 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 Leeds, where you will stay for 1 night.

One place travelers keep coming back to in Camden Town is the magnificent British Museum. Each year, this popular place of interest welcomes over 5,906,716 travelers from across the world. Around 148,750 visitors have rated this excellent national museum and travel destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Camden Town, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Leeds. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 40 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in London today.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

An exhilarating day of exploring and driving will have you longing for a comfortable bed at the end of the day. Fortunately, Leeds’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 Leeds boasts an array of restaurants and bars catering to every budget. Take this opportunity to sample the distinctive flavors of England.

Discover an unparalleled culinary experience at Prashad, a restaurant perfect to visit if you’re craving culinary excellence and fine dining. This restaurant has a diverse and enticing menu selection, which includes its delicious and signature indian vegetarian meals.

Make it a priority to experience Whitelock's Ale House during your stay in Leeds. This popular local restaurant offers an unparalleled menu, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, by 2,044 discerning guests.

Explore the culinary wonders of Bill's Leeds Restaurant, a popular local gem in Leeds. Its enticing menu promises a journey through flavors that will leave a lasting impression. Renowned for its impeccable service, it boasts a 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 1,768 satisfied guests.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Cosy Club, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Leeds. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, backed by 1,636 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular The Botanist Bar & Restaurant Leeds, consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to North Bar, one of the top-rated bars in Leeds, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 1,002 satisfied customers.

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!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 3 of your multi-country journey across England and Scotland. This exciting part of your road trip invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - York in England and Edinburgh in Scotland. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat for a restful slumber at one of the best hotels in Edinburgh. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in York. This drive usually takes around 46 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions. When you arrive, take a break from the road to indulge in some sightseeing.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Wigginton. This car ride takes around 13 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated park and attraction in Wigginton — Moorlands Woodland Nature Reserve. About 292 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Edinburgh, Scotland. This car ride takes around 3 hours 48 min.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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.

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 England and Scotland.

Transform your dining experience at Heron, one of the top Bib Gourmand restaurants in Edinburgh, holding 1 Michelin stars. Offering a diverse menu focusing on modern cuisine, Heron has earned praise from numerous satisfied guests.

Indulge in culinary masterpieces at Condita in Edinburgh, renowned as a Bib-Gourmand recipient. With its 1 Michelin star rating, it caters to the most discerning palates. The delectable modern cuisine at Condita is acclaimed far and wide.

Experience a symphony of flavors at The Kitchin in Edinburgh. Its 1-Michelin star menu is crafted to delight your senses and transport you on a gastronomic journey. This distinguished restaurant, awarded with a Bib-Gourmand honor, offers modern dishes that have gained widespread acclaim from satisfied guests.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at Panda & Sons. This famous bar in Edinburgh has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,617 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, The Dome. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. The Dome has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,433 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend Whiski Bar & Restaurant. This bar offers guests many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with a great night, helping it earn an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,669 customers.

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

Wake up and see what day 4 of your great European road trip in England and Scotland has in store for you! You will be staying in Edinburgh for 1 night before continuing your journey to the next destination.

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

Book a table at Dishoom Edinburgh, a famous dining establishment in Edinburgh. This culinary hotspot and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 5,852 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in Edinburgh is Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.6 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 2,950 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend Edinburgh’s Cafe Andaluz for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 3,019 satisfied diners.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Chaophraya Thai Restaurant. This bar is among the most recommended in the region, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,238 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh. This popular bar in Edinburgh is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,314 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love Cafe Royal. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Cafe Royal has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,216 reviews.

Take in the ambiance of Edinburgh 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 5 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. Today you will experience some of the highlights of this European tour package, that is, the wonderful destinations of Edinburgh in Scotland and Preston in England. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Preston. Preston will be your home 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.

Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh is a spectacular botanical garden and highlight on travelers’ itineraries in Edinburgh, earning an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 enchanted visitors.

As the day moves along, be sure to make time to drop by the magnificent Dean Village. Because of its allure and charm, around 13,727 visitors have rated this attraction and village an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Preston’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Edinburgh behind. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 43 min. Preston welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

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 Preston'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.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Turtle Bay Preston. 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 1,728 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Bistrot Pierre 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 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,124 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at The Cafe Bar. This highly regarded restaurant in Preston has earned a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 786 satisfied guests.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at Black Horse. This bar is among the most recommended in the city, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 774 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Wings & Beer Co. This popular bar in Preston is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 727 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love FORUM BAR & KITCHEN. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. FORUM BAR & KITCHEN has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 500 reviews.

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!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across England and Scotland. Today you will jump into the car and make your way to 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 London. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Leavesden. This car ride takes around 3 hours 50 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated exhibition room and attraction in Leavesden — Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. About 82,133 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

Set your GPS to London and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. London beckons with new experiences!

While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in London. 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 London. 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 England and Scotland.

Book a table at Bill's Soho Restaurant, a famous dining establishment in London. This culinary hotspot and its delectable cuisine have captured the hearts of food enthusiasts. Its reputation for food excellence is reflected in its 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 4,178 satisfied diners.

Another dining place you should visit in London is Cahoots London, which boasts a variety of tasteful dishes that cater to different palates. It has earned a commendable 4.6 out of 5 stars, demonstrating the positive feedback from 2,678 satisfied customers.

Locals and visitors alike recommend London’s The Ivy for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,597 satisfied diners.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in London. At The Old Bank of England, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,562 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Rules, another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,824 reviews.

The Ship & Shovell is also one of the best places in London where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 1,465 customers.

Celebrate day 6 of your multi-country road trip in Europe with a toast, and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 you have reached the last destination of your European road trip. Catch one last glimpse of London 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 England and Scotland. 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 England, take a moment for some retail therapy in London’s celebrated shopping district. Thanks to your stay’s premier location, you can easily visit the city’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 England, a variety of items are waiting for you.

Get a last taste of England’s tasty traditional food. Choose from a curated list of the best local food and drink spots in London 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 England and Scotland.

The time has come to say farewell to London for now. You will realize that you’re traveling home with more than you came with as you look back at your 7-day European road trip in England and Scotland with fond memories. Safe travels!