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

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 2 nights.

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.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Edinburgh. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Scotland. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the region.

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

Treat yourself to an extraordinary 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.

A local favorite is Condita. This exceptional dining experience in Edinburgh has been awarded 1 Michelin stars. Featuring modern cuisine, this popular Bib Gourmand restaurant is a top choice for both locals and tourists.

Discover the extraordinary dining experience offered by The Kitchin in Edinburgh. Its 1-Michelin star menu is designed to tantalize your taste buds and take you on a culinary adventure. Many previous guests have raved about this Bib Gourmand restaurant, adding to its 1 Michelin-star reputation.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at Panda & Sons, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the region. Panda & Sons boasts an impressive 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 1,617 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at The Dome, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. The Dome has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 6,433 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, Whiski Bar & Restaurant. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5-star from 6,433 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.

Day 2 of your multi-country road trip promises a full day of discoveries in beautiful Edinburgh. Enjoy time off the road as you’ll be staying in the region for 1 night more before hitting the road again.

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.

For a memorable dining experience, be sure to visit Dishoom Edinburgh. Known for its excellent cuisine and commitment to quality dishes, this restaurant in Edinburgh has received a 4.6 out of 5-star rating from around 5,852 happy diners.

When seeking local-favorite dining spots, Miller & Carter Edinburgh City Centre should be on your list. Situated in the heart of Edinburgh, it has become a beloved food venue for its delicious menu. It boasts a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,950 satisfied diners, a testament to its favored status.

Ready for a culinary adventure? Book a table at Cafe Andaluz. This highly regarded restaurant in Edinburgh has earned a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to its flavorful dishes and positive reviews from 3,019 satisfied guests.

If you’re in the mood for a drink, visit Chaophraya Thai Restaurant, one of the top bars in the region. An excellent place to unwind and enjoy a refreshing evening drink, Chaophraya Thai Restaurant has earned an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 2,238 customers.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a toast with locals and other travelers at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh, a crowd-favorite. Around 2,314 customers have rated their experience at The Ivy On The Square Edinburgh an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Cafe Royal belongs to the list of the best bars in Edinburgh, and its ratings and reviews are proof of this claim. This bar is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,216 bar-goers.

Savor the moment and raise a toast to yet another amazing day of your vacation in Scotland and England! 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.

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 2 vibrant destinations - Edinburgh in Scotland and Preston in England. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to Preston where you'll spend 1 night of well-deserved relaxation.

In Edinburgh, the extraordinary Scott Monument awaits. This attraction is a valued monument that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 4,370 travelers' reviews.

Another of the best travel destinations in Edinburgh is the spectacular Camera Obscura. This attraction is a visitor centre that is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 13,536 visitors, making it a captivating highlight for all travelers.

You could then travel to the amazing Scotch Whisky Heritage Centre. This local museum and wonder has an overall review score of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 8,926 visitors, proving its popularity among travelers. With up to 238,542 people visiting this popular attraction every year, this iconic city feature is one place you don't want to miss.

Edinburgh Castle is another attraction you might want to add to your Edinburgh 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 90,949 reviews.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Preston, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Edinburgh to Preston may take around 3 hours 47 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

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

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.

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.

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.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Preston. At Black Horse, you can enjoy a mix of fun and relaxation. This bar is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 774 customers.

Alternatively, unwind and relive your best memories of this day of your adventure at Wings & Beer Co. , another popular bar in the city. Customers have rated this fantastic bar an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 727 reviews.

FORUM BAR & KITCHEN is also one of the best places in Preston where you can let loose and enjoy some celebratory drinks. This bar has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 500 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 4 of your multi-country road trip in Europe, where you’ll be making 4 stops. The highlights of today include the wonderful destinations of Westminster 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.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Eton. This car ride takes around 3 hours 46 min.

You'll enjoy easy access to the most remarkable sights in Eton, including the outstanding Windsor Castle. Having an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 53,263 reviews, this fascinating historic house museum and attraction is one of the top travel destinations in the city.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Richmond. This car ride takes around 30 min.

Complement your beautiful day with a visit to a top-rated non-departmental public body and attraction in Richmond — Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. About 45,021 visitors have rated this attraction an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

When you’ve had your share of Richmond, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Westminster. Your travel time is around 30 min.

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.

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.

Elevate your experience by savoring a meal in The Wolseley, a distinguished dining establishment in London. It has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews of 5,980 satisfied guests and a menu that’s committed to quality and flavor.

Another dining spot you shouldn't miss while in London is Burger & Lobster Leicester Square. This popular restaurant’s appealing menu has garnered a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, thanks to the positive reviews shared by 4,454 happy diners.

Hawksmoor Air Street stands out as a local favorite in London. 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 4.6 out of 5-star rating from 3,216 customers.

Order some of the best-tasting cocktails and celebrate the night away at The Connaught Bar. This famous bar in London has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 654 customers.

You can also check out an equally popular bar in the area, Hawksmoor Seven Dials. This amazing place never disappoints with its variety of drinks and fantastic ambiance. Hawksmoor Seven Dials has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,084 customers.

If you want to visit another bar, we recommend The Red Lion, Parliament Street. 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 4.3 out of 5 stars from 3,534 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 5, you will wake up in London with an entire day of wonders ahead of you! You still have 2 nights left in London before it’s time to get back on the road and continue your European tour across Scotland and England.

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.

Book a table at Bill's Soho Restaurant, a famous dining establishment in London. This culinary hotspot and its appetizing 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.

Quench your thirst after a long day of adventure at The Old Bank of England, a prime hotspot for fun and relaxation seekers in the city. The Old Bank of England boasts an impressive 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,562 customers.

Or, try the exciting drinks at Rules, a vibrant place where locals and travelers converge for spirited toasts and amazing stories. Rules has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,824 customers.

As the sun dips below the horizon, make a stop at another famous bar in the area, The Ship & Shovell. This bar is a local favorite, with an impressive rating of 4.4 out of 5-star from 1,824 customers.

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.

Greet day 6 of your multi-country road trip across Scotland and England 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.

In Westminster, the extraordinary Hyde Park awaits. This attraction is a valued park that boasts an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 126,766 travelers' reviews.

Set your GPS to Kensington and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 7 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Kensington beckons with new experiences!

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Science Museum. This outstanding science museum and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year, with over 2,989,000 people visiting it annually. Garnering an average rating of 4.5 stars out of 5 from 65,368 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Science Museum is worth pages in your travel diary.

The fascinating Victoria and Albert Museum is another of the city's top attractions that will stir your curiosity. This museum and tourist destination welcomes approximately 3,932,738 visitors every year and boasts an average review score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 55,517 travelers.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in London. This drive usually takes around 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

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 London'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.

Don't miss out on experiencing Berners Tavern, 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 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,817 satisfied guests.

Make a reservation at The Palomar while immersing yourself in London. This distinguished restaurant offers imaginative dishes, with a remarkable rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 1,537 guests.

Discover the culinary treasures of Smith & Wollensky, 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 4.5 out of 5-star rating from 1,343 satisfied customers.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the city, Social Eating House. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars by 1,280 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous Old Shades. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 1,047 customers.

American Bar cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 667 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.6 out of 5 stars average rating.

Take in the ambiance of London 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!

On day 7 of your exciting European self-drive vacation in Scotland and England, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, London in England. When you’re not exploring the region and its surrounding areas, take time to relax at your selected hotel in York, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to London, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Leavesden. This drive usually takes around 42 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

One of today’s main highlights is the unforgettable Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. This outstanding exhibition room and travel destination inspires so many travelers each year. Garnering an average rating of 4.8 stars out of 5 from 82,133 travelers, a visit to the remarkable Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter is worth pages in your travel diary.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. York, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Leavesden to York may take around 3 hours 22 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

This outstanding travel destination inspires so many travelers each year.

After a long day of discovery, it's time to settle in at a top-rated hotel in York. Indulge in well-deserved rest and rejuvenation, preparing for the continued adventure that lies ahead.

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 York'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.

Reserve a table at Skosh, a luxury dining establishment in York. This epicurean hotspot’s delicious modern british offering makes it a crowd favorite. Skosh is highly regarded in the culinary world and boasts an impressive track record of satisfied customers.

Another popular dining spot in York is Roots, which critics have graced with 1 Michelin stars. This Bib Gourmand establishment’s pleasant ambiance and food choices leave a lasting impression on everyone who dines here. Its modern menu, characterized by its exquisite flavors, is a true testament to the Roots’s culinary excellence.

Locals and visitors alike recommend York’s Valhalla for the delightful dining experience it gives. The establishment has garnered positive reviews for its tasty dishes, holding an admirable score of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,740 satisfied diners.

After your meal, continue your getaway at one of the hottest bars in the region, Little Italy. This bar has an impressive average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 1,037 customers.

Alternatively, you can grab a few shots of your favorite drink and have an amazing night at the famous The Ivy St Helen's Square York. This incredible bar has a vibrant atmosphere and plays great music, worthy of its average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,879 customers.

Pivní York cannot be missed with its wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Around 1,396 bar lovers have given this place a seal of approval with their 4.6 out of 5 stars average rating.

Take in the ambiance of York 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!

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable multi-country road trip across Scotland and England. Today's main destinations are York in England and Edinburgh in Scotland, 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 Edinburgh. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in York today. Begin your sightseeing with a visit to the outstanding Shambles Market. This attraction boasts an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 10,860 visitors.

Next, discover the charms of the popular National Railway Museum. This incredible attraction and railway museum holds an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars, thanks to 26,320 visitors. Up to 807,591 people visit this fantastic attraction every year.

Set your GPS to Beamish and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 34 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Beamish beckons with new experiences!

Something that makes Beamish the perfect holiday destination is that the city offers easy access to many popular places of interest, like the outstanding museum, Beamish, the Living Museum of the North. This local gem has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 17,869 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Beamish, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Set course for Scotland! Under favorable conditions, your drive to Edinburgh may take around 2 hours 45 min. Upon your arrival in Edinburgh, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Explore multiple popular travel destinations in York today.

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

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

Don't forget to book a table at The Witchery by the Castle, 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 4.4 out of 5-star rating from 2,766 satisfied guests.

Ensure you visit The Kitchin while exploring Edinburgh. This popular restaurant offers a delicious menu, distinguished with a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars, celebrated by 1,577 discerning guests.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Tigerlily, 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 4.3 out of 5-star rating from 2,369 discerning diners.

Spend the night with your favorite cocktail in hand at The Bow Bar. This bar is among the most recommended in the region, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 1,813 customers.

Embrace relaxation as you toast to a fantastic night at Albanach. This popular bar in Edinburgh is a local favorite with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,018 customers.

If you want to check out another bar in the area, you’ll love The Ensign Ewart. This bar is known for its many choices of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The Ensign Ewart has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,604 reviews.

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 9 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.

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