5-Day Road Trip in Scotland and England from Edinburgh to Preston and Manchester

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.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Edinburgh. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

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.

Discover the essence of culinary excellence at Heron, a Bib Gourmand local dining experience. Renowned for its prestigious 1 Michelin-star rating and impressive menu, Heron consistently impresses both foreign and local diners, garnering praise for its exceptional modern cuisine.

Also highly recommended is Condita, one of the best 1-star Michelin establishments in Edinburgh. Take your pick from the modern menu, which has consistently earned Condita high ratings and praise from satisfied guests. This top-rated Bib Gourmand restaurant promises a culinary experience you will remember.

Experience the best local flavors while in Edinburgh and reserve a table at the 1-star Michelin restaurant, The Kitchin. Its delectable modern offerings have contributed to impressive reviews from numerous patrons who’ve already savored its meals. Food enthusiasts visiting the area will be particularly excited to experience this Bib Gourmand restaurant.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Edinburgh. At Panda & Sons, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,617 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at The Dome, another popular bar in the region. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,433 reviews.

Whiski Bar & Restaurant is also one of the best places in Edinburgh where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,669 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.

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Scotland and England. Today's main destinations are Edinburgh in Scotland and Preston 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 Preston. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

A favorite among locals and travelers alike in Edinburgh is the fantastic National Museum of Scotland. As an appreciated national museum and local gem in the area, National Museum of Scotland has earned an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 45,476 reviews.

Next up on your agenda, you will find the extraordinary Edinburgh Castle. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 90,949 visitors, so don't miss the opportunity to experience it for yourself!

Join countless others in discovering the allure of Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, a standout botanical garden and attraction that's captivated the hearts of many. It has a stellar rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,765 reviewers.

Experience the magic that has drawn so many to the doorstep of the outstanding Holyrood Palace. This official residence is a highly recommended attraction in the city boasting an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 17,746 visitor reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive towards England, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Preston. This drive usually takes around 3 hours 35 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

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.

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

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 Preston. After dinner, head out to a bar to reminisce about your day and raise a toast to this stop on your road trip.

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.

Wrap up your evening by visiting the renowned Black Horse, a must-visit hotspot in the city of Preston. This bar has garnered an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, backed by 774 delighted customers.

Alternatively, quench your thirst at the popular Wings & Beer Co. , consistently rated 4.3 out of 5 stars in reviews.

Or, for an authentic local recommendation, head over to FORUM BAR & KITCHEN, one of the top-rated bars in Preston, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 500 satisfied customers.

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 3 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 2 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Liverpool in England. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Manchester, your home for 1 night.

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 Liverpool may take around 1 hour 3 min. Upon your arrival in Liverpool, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

In Liverpool, the extraordinary The Liverpool Waterfront awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,141 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Liverpool is the spectacular Museum of Liverpool. This attraction is a museum that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 9,961 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Royal Albert Dock Liverpool. This local sightseeing destination and wonder has an overall review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 44,352 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers.

Cavern Club is another attraction you might want to add to your Liverpool exploration itinerary. This bar is a popular stop among travelers in the area, as seen in its average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 11,941 reviews.

If you’re interested in seeing something outstanding today, consider dropping by a well-loved spot among locals — World Museum. More than a popular museum and attraction, World Museum offers visitors an immersive journey of the rich cultural tapestry of Liverpool. Captivating approximately 605,601 people each year, World Museum boasts an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,960 traveler reviews.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Liverpool, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Manchester. This drive usually takes around 54 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dining experience at Fazenda Manchester while you’re in Manchester. Famous for its lovely menu and mouthwatering dishes, it has captivated around 3,779 diners, earning it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Another favorite dining locale in Manchester is Hawksmoor Manchester. Have a satisfying meal from the menu that has charmed its way to the hearts of around 2,765 happy customers, who gave it an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

While in Manchester, enjoy Flight Club Manchester’s appetizing dishes. This dining establishment has earned a positive reputation and a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to the endorsements and reviews of around 1,658 satisfied guests.

If you’re looking for a bar to end the evening at, many locals recommend Royal Exchange Theatre, claiming it’s one of the best in the region. This bar has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 3,968 customers.

Another popular place to go for a drink is Port Street Beer House. It is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 2,146 customers.

THE BRITONS PROTECTION 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 1,777 customers.

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!

On day 4 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Scotland and England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Greenholme in England and Edinburgh 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.

After soaking in Manchester’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Levens. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 19 min. When you arrive in Levens, it's time to take a break from the road.

Something that makes Levens the perfect holiday destination is that the village offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding house museum, Levens Hall. This local gem has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,310 visitors.

After soaking in Levens’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Sedgwick. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 5 min. When you arrive in Sedgwick, it's time to take a break from the road.

A tour of Sedgwick is not complete without a visit to the famous National Trust - Sizergh. This incredible park and attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,854 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Greenholme. This drive usually takes around 34 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated point of interest and attraction in Greenholme — Tebay Services (Southbound). About 20,093 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

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

As the sun sets on day 4 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 region’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.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in Dishoom Edinburgh, a distinguished dining establishment in Edinburgh. It has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 5,852 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in Edinburgh is Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 2,950 happy diners.

Cafe Andaluz stands out as a local favorite in Edinburgh. It offers a menu that promises to take you on a flavorful journey. Due to its reputation for delivering a good dining experience, it has earned a 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 3,019 customers.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the region. Chaophraya Thai Restaurant boasts an impressive 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 2,238 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,314 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Cafe Royal. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5-star from 2,314 customers.

As the night falls in Edinburgh, 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.

On day 5 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.

Make the most of your final day in Scotland by visiting Edinburgh’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the region’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments.

Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Scotland.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in Edinburgh today.

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 5-day European road trip in Scotland and England with fond memories. Safe travels!