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Tour to Edinburgh from London staying overnight

Two day tour by train including visit to edinburgh castle and open top bus tour.

Stay overnight in an Edinburgh 3-star hotel and spend time at your leisure in Edinburgh

If our Edinburgh day trip is just too short or the day too long, take things at a more relaxed pace by staying overnight in a centrally located Edinburgh hotel and spending two full days in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh's Waverley Station, where you get off the train from London is in the very heart of the city of Edinburgh. All the main sights including Edinburgh Castle are within easy walking distance of the train station. On day two of your tour you will have free time to visit Edinburgh at your leisure. Calton Hill, Holyrood Palace and Park and Salisbury Crags all await you...

This tour is independent; not a guided tour. On purchasing you simply print off your reserved train tickets at home and take them with you to King's Cross Station at the required time. You will also receive an entrance ticket to Edinburgh Castle and a 1-day hop-on, hop off Edinburgh sightseeing pass , details of your hotel, as well as a city map enabling you to plan your short break ahead on the train.

Tour highlights   Tour details   Departure from Kings Cross   Open top bus tour Edinburgh   Edinburgh Castle   Day 2 free time in Edinburgh   Prices & reservations  

EDINBURGH OVERNIGHT FROM LONDON

2-days in Edinburgh from London by high speed train with Edinburgh Castle

• Travel by high speed train • Accommodation at a centrally located 3* hotel • Entrance tickets to Edinburgh Castle • Hop on hop off open top bus tour Edinburgh • Time for shopping and sightseeing • City map • Optional upgrade transfers to Kings Cross • Option for first class upgrade

2-day trip to Edinburgh from London highlights

Return train tickets to Edinburgh with reserved seats

Entry to Edinburgh Castle

Edinburgh open top sightseeing bus tour

Free time to explore Edinburgh at your leisure

Accommodation at a centrally located 3-star Edinburgh hotel

 Transfer from Central London to London King's Cross (if purchased)

First Class (optional extra) includes refreshments served at your sea

Edinburgh from London in two days - tour details

Tour runs Monday - Friday all year round.

6.45am  - check in at Kings Cross Railway Station for a 7am  - departure

11.22am - arrive at Waverley Station, Edinburgh

Returning the next day

5.15pm for a 5.30pm departure

10.09pm  - arrival back at London Kings Cross Railway Station

Departure from Kings Cross Station

You will need to be at King’s Cross Station at 6.45am with your  train e-tickets for your outbound and inbound rail journeys.  Your train will depart at 7am and arrive in to Edinburgh at 11.22am. 

You will need to print your Open Top Bus Tour and Edinburgh Castle tickets.

You’ll also get a handy Edinburgh map to make navigating the city a little easier.

Day 1: Open top bus tour in Edinburgh

A hop on hop off open top bus tour will take you round all the main sights in Scotland's capital.

From your vantage point you will see the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle, where you will be visiting later in your day.

You’ll cruise down Royal Mile, one of the busiest streets in Edinburgh’s historic old town, and past the famed Greyfriars Bobby monument.

Ticket is valid for 24hours so you will be able to use it on day 2.

Day 1: Edinburgh Castle and overnight in 3-star hotel

Following your open top bus tour you head to Edinburgh Castle, where your ticket has already been paid.

This much-loved fortress has been involved in many historical conflicts since the 12th century and stands guard over the city from atop the Castle Rock.

See the dazzling Scottish Crown Jewels and pose for photos with unbeatable panoramic views of the city skyline in the background.

Accommodation - overnight in Edinburgh

You will be provided accommodation in a centrally located 3-star hotel.

Day 2: Edinburgh at your leisure and return to London

Take the second day to explore Edinburgh as you wish. You might explore the Royal Mile, the popular tourist spot of many streets forming a thoroughfare linking the two most famous landmarks in Edinburgh - the Palace of Holyroodhouse and Edinburgh Castle.

Holyrood Palace is the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, and also a popular place for tourists to visit.

There are many museums to visit in Edinburgh, such as the National Museum of Scotland, one of the top ten UK visitor attractions. Admission is free (donations welcome) and it is open daily, with the exception of some days over Christmas.

There are many other museums and galleries in Edinburgh to choose from; or, if you are in need of some exercise, a walk up either Calton Hill or through Holyrood Park and Salisbury Crags will give you some spectacular views of the City of Edinburgh.

Return journey

Check in time for your return journey is 5pm. Your train will then depart Edinburgh at 5.30pm, arriving back in London at 10.09pm.

Prices & tour reservations

Prices displayed on the banner link are the current prices for this tour.

Sometimes on special occasions there may be slight changes to the tour, dates or price so do check on the booking page linked below. Extra dates are often put on around long holiday weekends, notably Easter and New Year.

Major credit and debit cards are accepted. You will be emailed a confirmation with a booking reference after reservation.

To book you will need your booking reference and in addition the first and last names of  all  passengers when ordering. There are no paper tickets.

On the tour detail page from the link below, there is a date drop-down at the top right of the page, which depicts which dates still have availability. By selecting your required date you start the reservation process. Once we list a date for operation it is guaranteed to run, there are no minimum numbers.

MOST POPULAR TOURS FROM LONDON 2024

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We Recommend

Edinburgh - The Royal City

Discover one of the most memorable and unique cities in Europe: Edinburgh.  Fondly known as Auld Reekie , which means 'Old Smokey' in Scots, the Scottish capital is one of Europe's most unique and memorable cities.

Explore the city in one day, where you'll feel a sense of history in every corner - from underground vaults and hidden passageways to relics of construction from a bygone era and more. Be ready to uncover incredible gems in and around Edinburgh's historic town centre, also called 'Old Town'.

King's Cross Station, London, UK

Edinburgh , Scotland's picturesque capital, has attractions for everyone to enjoy. At the heart of the city stands the iconic Edinburgh Castle, perched majestically atop Castle Rock - a long extinct volcano -, which you'll visit as part of your rail tour from London. Admire breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and explore the long, bloody history of the castle, from its time as a military fortress, royal residence and prison of war.

Beyond the castle walls, discover the Royal Mile in Edinburgh's historic Old Town, where charming shops, cool cafes, hidden gems, and vibrant street performers await.

At the opposite end of the Royal Mile stands the imposing Palace of Holyroodhouse , the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. So be ready to explore the ancient corridors of Edinburgh Castle or stroll along the bustling Royal Mile; whatever you're into, Scotland's capital city will leave you in awe.

First Class

Upgrade your train travel to first class and travel in style with breakfast on your outbound journey and dinner upon your return.

Overnight – 1 or 2 nights

Edinburgh has a lot to offer. Why not stay an extra night or stay for 2 nights and take advantage of a trip up to the highlands?

Hop-on Hop-off bus tour

Board your Hop-on Hop-off Guided Bus Tour and journey around some of Edinburgh's finest and culture-rich destinations. The Tour takes you to 14 fantastic locations, including Grassmarket, a historic marketplace with incredible views of Edinburgh Castle, John Knox House, a magnificent medieval building dating back to the 15th century and the Palace of Holyroodhouse, The Queen’s official residence in Edinburgh. The ticket is valid all day, so you can hop on and hop off as many times as you like.

An amazing trip to Loch Ness and the chance to go Monster hunting! Heading north from Edinburgh, we pass the imposing ramparts of Stirling Castle and skirt the Trossachs (Rob Roy country) before crossing the wilds of Rannoch Moor and onto dramatic Glencoe. Our tour takes us past Fort William and Britain’s highest mountain, the mighty Ben Nevis, before following the Great Glen and stopping in the village of Fort Augustus by the shores of the mysterious Loch Ness .

You can take a boat trip on Loch Ness , explore or simply relax in a gorgeous wee Highland village. Enjoy our free locally-produced picnic lunch. Our return journey passes through the ‘Monarch of the Glen’ country, south to Perthshire and the historic town of Dunkeld. We then view the spectacular Forth Bridges before returning to the Capital around 8:00 pm.

London King’s Cross Station

Kings Cross Station is centrally located and easily accessible by underground, serviced by the Metropolitan, Circle, Hammersmith & City, Victoria and Northern Lines and is in Zone 1.

Operates: April - March, Monday to Saturday

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Outbound: Train departs London Kings Cross: 07:00 / Train arrives in Edinburgh: 11:20
• Return: Train departs Edinburgh: 17:30 / Train arrives at London Kings Cross: 22:10
• Your electronic tickets and vouchers will be sent to you one week prior to your scheduled departure date via email (or, if booked within one week, then within 24 hours of booking). We would recommend arriving at Kings Cross Station 30 minutes before your scheduled train departure time
• This Tour is unescorted
• We will make every effort to fulfil any requests you have for seating on the train; however, this cannot be guaranteed
• Please visit our Travel Health page for full details of our enhanced hygiene standards and protocols

PACKAGE OPTIONS

Edinburgh - The Royal City (Standard class) :

• Edinburgh Castle entry
• Hop-on, Hop-off sightseeing tour of Edinburgh
• Roundtrip train journey in standard class with reserved seats 

Free Wi-Fi On Board the train

• Information Pack and map

Edinburgh - The Royal City (First Class):

• Roundtrip First Class train tickets with reserved seats  
• Round-trip train tickets to Edinburgh with reserved seats 
• Hop-on hop-off Sightseeing Tour of Edinburgh 
• Entry ticket to Edinburgh Castle 
• A free city map and information booklet 
• Optional Extras:
• First class return train travel
• Stay overnight in a centrally located 3-star hotel, bed and breakfast
• Stay two nights in a centrally located 3-star hotel, bed and breakfast and a day Tour to Loch Ness & the Highlands

What's Included

Round-trip train journey with reserved seats, entrance to edinburgh castle, hop-on hop off bus tour of edinburgh, what's excluded, hotel pick-up & drop-off.

• No Cancellation Fees
• No Change Fees
• No Booking Fees
• Your Money is Protected - Free cancellation up to 7 days before the day of departure. Cancellations inside 7 days will be charged at 100%.
• Our team, including our guides and drivers, have been trained in our enhanced hygiene procedures; please refer to our Travel Health page for more information

For full terms, see Our Flexible Promise to You

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• 2-5 Day Tours from London >

2 or 3 Day Edinburgh Tour from London

Our 2 day Edinburgh tour from London is the perfect way to explore the Scottish capital on a short city break. You can also choose to add on an extra day and turn this into a 3 day tour break. You’ll travel directly by rail from London to Edinburgh with reserved seats on East Coast trains. Your first day in Edinburgh includes a hop on hop off bus tour, as well as entrance tickets to Edinburgh Castle, with an overnight stay in a 3* hotel. On day two, you’ll have free time to explore the city at your leisure. There are lots of exciting attractions you could visit, such as Holyrood Palace, the Underground Vaults and the Royal Yacht Britannia. You will then return to London by train. Alternatively, choose to add on an extra day in Edinburgh.

2 or 3 Day Edinburgh Tour

This is a self-guided tour which includes overnight accommodation in an Edinburgh hotel.  You can also add on an extra night.

• Depart from King’s Cross Station London at 7am, arriving in central Edinburgh at 11:22am.
• Enjoy a hop on hop off bus tour of Edinburgh. Get to grips with the city on an open top bus, passing by many of its most famous sites and attractions. You can hop on and off as much as you like on the first day
• Your first day also includes entrance tickets to Edinburgh Castle. Getting to the Castle is easy with the hop on hop off bus ticket. The castle itself dates back to the 12th Century, and your ticket includes admission to view the Scottish Crown Jewels, enter the Great Hall, see the Stone of Destiny and take in breathtaking views of the city bellow.
• Spend your evening in the Scottish capital. There are lots of bustling bars and restaurants in the city centre, as well as an array of nightlife activities such as concerts and shows.

Overnight Stay

Your Edinburgh tour from London includes an overnight stay in one of the following 3* hotels (subject to availability)

• Central Edinburgh Hotel
• Murrayfield Hotel

This is a free day where you can explore Edinburgh at your leisure. There are many more Edinburgh attractions that you can visit on your second day or alternatively choose to take a tour of the city. Some suggestions include:

Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2023. Photographer Peter Smith

• For thrill-seekers, explore the Edinburgh underground vaults and hear tales of the city’s ghostly past
• The Scotch Whisky Experience is a must for whisky fans who can sample a wee dram of Scotland’s national drink!
• At the end of your second day in Edinburgh return to London. Your train departs Edinburgh at 5.31pm, arriving back in London at 10.18pm. At the end of your third day, return to London by train.

Add an Extra Night 

You can also choose to extend your stay by adding on an extra night to your booking. With 3 days in Scotland, you could choose to spend your second day on a day tour to Loch Ness & The Highlands, with the third day spent exploring the best of Edinburgh.

Your tour includes:

• Reserved seats on East Coast Trains, standard class
• Open Top Bus Tour
• Entrance tickets to Edinburgh Castle
• Overnight accommodation in a 3* hotel

Your tour excludes:

• Any other entrance tickets or tours
• Food, drink

Optional Extras:

Choose to include the following upgrades

• Add an extra night accommodation in Edinburgh
• Hotel transfer – a transfer from your Central London hotel to King’s Cross Station. Please wait by the concierge desk in your hotel at 5.45am. (Applicable to clients staying in central London hotels only and must be pre-booked)
• Optional upgrade to 1st class.  This includes extra-wide seats with additional legroom,  free wifi and USB chargers. Enjoy complimentary food & drink brought to your seat (subject to availability). It also includes the use of the 1st class lounge at Waverley Station.
• Cancel bookings up to 14 days prior to departure to receive a full refund
• Reserved seats on the train
• Please arrive at the train station 30 minutes before train departure
• This tour is self-guided

Tour Booking

Terms and conditions, you might also be interested.

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The Perfect Itinerary for 7 Days in London and Edinburgh

Isabelle Newcomb

https://www.foratravel.com/guides/WXSJQH/the-perfect-itinerary-for-7-days-in-london-and-edinburgh-isabelle-newcomb

International Travel

Arts & Culture

Couples Travel

City Travel

Group Travel

Road Trip Travel

Sightseeing

Multi-Destination

Curator’s statement

After studying abroad in the U.K. for a semester in college, I can definitely say that it is one of my favorite countries in the world! There is so much to see and do here, which is why I made this perfect itinerary for 7 days in London and Edinburgh. This itinerary takes you to two of the largest cities in the U.K., London and Edinburgh, and is itinerary is pretty jam-packed, making it best for solo travelers, couples and active groups!

The Fora Difference

Book with Isabelle to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay

Vintry and mercer.

Luxury hotel with fashionable rooms in the heart of London.

$50 – 100 (resort / spa) credit.

Daily breakfast.

Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

The Franklin London - Starhotels Collezione

Posh hotel with opulent rooms set in an elegant Victorian building near Hyde Park in London.

Andaz London Liverpool Street

Distinctively local hotel with modern and spacious rooms and suites, five restaurants and bars and the best of East London and the city, just a stone’s throw from the doorstep.

20% food / beverage discount.

Upgrade to next room category, based upon availability at check-in.

Guaranteed 2pm late check-out.

Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel

Perched on the edge of a picturesque private garden in the New Town, Kimpton Charlotte Square Hotel blends traditional glamor with the Scotland of today.

$100 food / beverage credit.

Breakfast daily.

Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

Modern Scottish luxury in Edinburgh just steps away from Edinburgh Castle and Victoria Street.

Welcome amenity

Day 1: Arrive in London

You’ve made it to London! Depending on when you arrive, you may be pretty tired from the flight. Take some time to relax and get used to the time change. If you are up for it, make your way to an English pub!

My suggestions are:

The Grenadier .

Ye Olde Mitre, Holborn .

The Lamb & Flag .

Covent Garden .

Day 2: Sightseeing in London

Today we are visiting all the important spots in London! I know it sounds super touristy, but the best way to get around is a Hop On Hop Off Bus tour! Big Bus London has multiple different bus routes that will take you all over the city, and the good thing is, you can hop off at any time if you want to walk around somewhere! My suggestions for stops to get off at and explore for a little bit:

Piccadilly Circus - The London version of Times Square.

Big Ben and Westminster Abbey - Whitehall.

St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Tower of London/London Bridge.

Buckingham Palace.

Oxford Street.

You get to end a perfect sightseeing day on Oxford Street, one of the most popular shopping streets in all of London! You have to eat at Market Hall West End, there are two bars and eight restaurants, making it the perfect spot for any eater! If you aren’t too tired, try out another pub tonight!

Day 3: Borough Market in London or travel to Edinburgh

We have two options for the day, depending on whether you want to spend more time in London or in Edinburgh! Option 1: We will leave in the early morning to board the 4-hour train to Edinburgh. Once in Edinburgh, get ready, because we are hiking an extinct volcano with the best view of the city, Arthur’s Seat! There are two hike options, Arthur’s Seat is a bit more strenuous but with better views, while the other option is Salisbury Crags, which is easier but the view is not as wonderful. Option 2: Sleep in a little bit and head out to Borough Market when it opens at 10 AM. There are tons of stalls with merchants, lots of food options and produce/flowers. There are so many food options, you definitely want to stay here for lunch! We will head out of London in the late afternoon for the 4-hour train ride. We don’t want to get into Edinburgh too late, we have an early day tomorrow!

Day 4: Visit Loch Ness & Glencoe

On day 4 of your 7 days in London, we will be taking a full-day trip to none other than…Loch Ness! Home of the infamous Loch Ness Monster, this beautiful lake cannot be missed. On this trip, we will also get to see Glencoe, an area with breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands. Maybe we will even spot the adorable Highland Cow, or as the locals call them, coos! If you are feeling up for it after the tour, we have to go to a classic Scottish Pub! My Suggestions:

The Bow Bar.

Dirty Dick’s Pub

Sandy Bell’s.

Day 5: Visit Edinburgh Castle and The Royal Mile

We will head out early (we want to miss the crowds) to visit the famous Edinburgh Castle, a beautiful, medieval castle overlooking the city of Edinburgh. After doing an awesome tour of the castle, we will do some shopping and sightseeing through The Royal Mile, the historic street next to the castle. The Royal Mile has tons to see: parliaments, a cathedral and churches, walking tours, shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs. Lunch Suggestion on the Royal Mile:

The Grain Store .

Wedgwood The Restaurant .

In the evening, we will hop on the 4-hour train back to London.

Day 6: Harry Potter Studio, Oxford, Stonehenge or the Natural History Museum

Today we are leaving the city to explore, and we have options! For the Harry Potter lovers, we are going to the Warner Brothers Harry Potter Studio. This tour includes tons of original HP sets, clothing and props, as well as interactive exhibits! Another option is to do a walking tour of HP filming sites in London city if you aren’t up for leaving the city.

Another option is to visit Oxford, home to Oxford University, the oldest university in England! The city is compact and scenic, perfect for a half-day trip and filled with amazing architecture.

We can also take a day trip to Stonehenge. This mysterious stone circle is most often visited by either half or full-day trips from London, with a guided tour.

Don’t like any of these options? I suggest spending the first half of the day at a museum. I recommend the Natural History Museum for the nature-loving travelers or the National Gallery for art lovers! For dinner/the evening, I suggest making your way to Chinatown, the vibes are great and it’s even better at night! Restaurant Suggestions:

Koya Soho .

Food House .

Day 7: Final day in London

So sad, we have to leave! Depending on when your flight departs, you may have time for a bite to eat. Breakfast Suggestions:

E Pellicci .

Regency Cafe .

Lunch Suggestions:

Scarlett Garden .

Need to Know

For more travel tips, check out my 7-Day Itinerary for Exploring La Fortuna, Costa Rica .

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on  travel to London , part of our larger series on travel to England .

A 10-Day London and Edinburgh Itinerary

Make the most of your time in the UK with this 10-day London and Edinburgh itinerary. You’ll see all the best sights and get a taste of history, culture, and life in the UK. This trip is not to be missed!

My dad always told us that when we all grew up and got married, he wanted to take his adult children and their spouses to Hawaii. My dad passed away before my youngest brother got married, so we never got to fulfill his dream. Shortly after his death, my mom decided that she wanted to do it anyway—but to London instead! And she asked me to plan a 10-day London and Edinburgh itinerary. After getting input from the 13 of us (my mom, her 6 kids, and our spouses) on what everyone wanted to do, I came up with the following 10-day London and Edinburgh itinerary. And it did not disappoint! This was seriously one of the most memorable and amazing trips I’ve ever taken.

Day 1: London sights

We arrived in London at 7 am local time. Yes we were tired, but we didn’t want to waste any time! (In my opinion, the best way to get over jet lag is to just adapt to local time by staying up during daylight hours in your new location and going to bed early that first night.)

After getting settled in our Airbnb and going grocery shopping, we set off to explore! We purchased a 5-attraction London Explorer pass, which made it easy to visit the attractions we wanted to see. With 20+ attractions to choose from, there was something for everyone!

Buckingham Palace

You can’t come to London and not visit Buckingham Palace! Although we missed the changing of the guard, we still got to see the palace and the grounds and the guards marching back and forth in those big furry hats.

Westminster Abbey

Next we hit Westminster Abbey and took the guided tour (included in our London Explorer pass). We learned all about the history of the abbey and the British monarchy. The architecture of the abbey is incredible!

Thames River cruise

We passed Big Ben on our way to the Thames River, where we took a river cruise (also included in the London Explorer pass). Our guide pointed out all the sights along the Thames, and explained their significance. We really enjoyed seeing the famous skylines from the river!

Borough Market

We ended the day at Borough Market, a large market selling all sorts of local foods. It was delicious and easy to try a sampling of a variety of English foods.

Day 2: Warner Bros Studio

Being the Harry Potter fans that most of my siblings and I are, we had to spend a day at the Warner Bros Studio. They provide a shuttle to the studio from several stops around London. We learned all about special effects, saw the costumes and sets used in the movies, and of course, drank butterbeer and pumpkin juice. Yum!

It was so fascinating to see the details of the costumes and sets, but my favorite part was learning the secrets of how they did the special effects. Here’s a cool video about some highlights—including Matt flying on a broom!

That night we ate at a traditional English pub, St. George’s Tavern. The fish n chips were excellent!

Day 3: London sights

Double-decker bus tour.

We started off the day with a double-decker bus tour around the city (included in the London Explorer pass). I loved this because we were able to see things and learn about stuff that we otherwise would not have if we’d just taken the subway to the destinations we wanted to visit. You could get on and off the bus whenever you wanted too, so we stopped at the following places along the route.

Our first stop was Kings Cross Station, because I wanted to see Platform 9 ¾. To be honest, Platform 9 3/4 was a little disappointing (they have a better version at the WB studio), but the station was fun to see.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

Next we stopped at St. Paul’s Cathedral. I was seriously BLOWN AWAY! I loved everything about St. Paul’s, and it was a highlight of London for me.  A definite must-do. Both inside and outside were gorgeous. We went to a Sunday service, and the acoustics inside were just incredible! I loved hearing the choir and looking up at the immaculate ceiling. They also have guided tours you can take when there aren’t services going on. And the grounds are beautiful. You can even channel your inner Mary Poppins on the famous steps in front of the cathedral.

Tower of London

We hopped back on the bus and got off at the Tower of London. It’s not really a tower, but a fortress and prison. We learned all about the history, the ravens, and the crown jewels from our awesome guide, Beefeater Dave. (The prison guards were called beefeaters back in the day.) After our tour, we got to go in and see the famed crown jewels. I enjoyed hearing about all the coronation traditions and seeing the incredible crowns and other items on display.

London Bridge

From there, we went over to the London Bridge (included in the explorer pass), and learned all about this architectural gem. You can even go way up over the bridge to the glass bottom observatory. To be honest, walking on the glass floor that high up kinda freaked me out, but it was still cool!

We had planned for our last stop to be the London Eye, but when we arrived the line had been cut off because it was so late and there were so many people already in line. I was super disappointed, however some of my siblings were able to go and said it was amazing!

Day 4: Windsor, Bath, and Stonehenge

We took a day trip out to Windsor castle, Bath, and Stonehenge. Our tour from International Friends Day Trips was awesome! They do smaller group tours (they only do groups of 10-15), so we were the only ones in our van and we had the BEST guide. They made it so easy and enjoyable, and we learned so much about each location. Our guide went above and beyond and talked to us about local culture and politics, etc., which we found so interesting.

For example, we went right when the whole Brexit thing was happening, so she told us all about it. She also told us the different ways locals prefer to top their scones and toasts (some do jam then cream, and others prefer cream then jam).

Windsor Castle was gorgeous and we even got to see the staff preparing for Princess Eugenie’s wedding.

Day 5: Oxford/Ilston on the Hill

Since two of my brothers are major fans of JRR Tolkien and CS Lewis, they requested that we visit Oxford. We took a day trip out to Oxford and did a guided walking tour from a local Oxford student. While I didn’t think Oxford would be super interesting, this charming town proved me wrong! We learned all about the university and the different colleges. Our guide even told us interesting facts and stories about those famous authors. We ate lunch at the local Eagle and Child pub where Tolkien and Lewis came to meet up with their writer friends and discuss their writing. The food was delicious, and the sticky toffee pudding was to die for!

Legend has it that when CS Lewis came out of the doors of the church on the Oxford campus, he saw a door with a lion and a fawn on it and looked to his right and saw a lamppost. And the idea for The Chronicles of Narnia was born! So of course we had to visit that church and see for ourselves. For other travel-inspiring books , check out our favorites here !

The local museum featured a really cool Tolkien exhibit that included some of his original manuscripts and drawings. We even saw original, illustrated letters that Tolkien had written to his children from Santa. Honestly, I wished we would have had more time in Oxford.

Ilston on the Hill

Later that day we visited a small town called Ilston on the Hill. My mom had been doing some family history and discovered that many of our ancestors came from this place. (This was actually the reason my mom wanted to come to London in the first place—to see the places where our ancestors came from.)

We visited the local church where many of our ancestors were christened, married, and buried. After talking with a local, we even got to go inside and look around and see the church’s 200 year old Bible! Honestly, this was a really special part of our trip. If you have the opportunity to visit the places your ancestors came from, I highly recommend it!

Day 6: London sights

Since we are members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints , we wanted to visit our church’s London Temple while we were there. We hired a driver to take us out to the suburbs where the temple is located. It was a beautiful drive and so fun to see some of the country. (I highly recommend hiring a driver if you can. It was so nice not to have to worry about directions or traffic, etc in a foreign country.) We had a wonderful time at the temple, and I especially loved the beautiful grounds.

If you want to stay in London, I’d suggest visiting the Shakespeare’s Globe Theater, the Churchill War Rooms, and/or Kensington Palace. Or, you could go out to Greenwich (home to the Meridian Line at the Royal Observatory, Cutty Sark, and the National Maritime Museum). All of these attractions (minus Kensington) are included in the Explorer Pass.

After our morning at the temple, we indulged in afternoon tea at the Hotel Café Royal. I love going to afternoon tea! It’s a British tradition that should not be missed. They serve several different kinds of tea (including herbal), scones, sandwiches, and pastries. You think this might be a snack, but it’s a full-on meal! So we definitely left with full bellies!

After tea, we saw Hamilton at the Victoria Palace Theater. There are several theaters in the West End that feature the best of Broadway! Hamilton was AMAZING! As I’m sure all the shows are that London has to offer.

Day 7: Train to Edinburgh

As much as I wished we would have had more time in London, we took a train to Edinburgh to finish out our trip. I loved riding through the countryside and seeing the beauty of the landscapes and the small towns we passed through.

Upon arriving in Edinburgh and getting checked into our hotel, we enjoyed dinner at The Tower Restaurant. The Tower features fine dining on the top floor of the National Museum of Scotland. This was the BEST meal! Seriously, I think this was the best steak I’ve ever had in my life. We even tried haggis there and it wasn’t gross. And the views from the roof were incredible.

Day 8: Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle, and Trossachs National Park

We had originally wanted to visit Loch Ness, but we discovered that Loch Lomond was supposedly prettier and closer. And had a song inspired by it! So we hired a driver to take us out to the loch. We used Kilted Piper Tours , and Graeme, our driver and guide, was incredible!

This was probably my favorite day of our whole trip. Stirling Castle was interesting, and the Scottish landscapes of Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park were just gorgeous. Graeme even played the bagpipes for us and the highlight was when he let us have a turn!

Day 9: Kirkton of Glenisla

Another line of our ancestors come from the small Scottish town of Kirkton of Glenisla. We knew there was a home in Glenisla that my 3 rd great grandfather, John Robertson, had lived in as a child with his family before they immigrated to the US. And we wanted to find it! So we set out on a bit of a wild goose hunt because we didn’t know exactly where it was.

We saw the schoolhouse and the church in town where my ancestors went, and scoured the graveyard for our ancestors’ headstones. The local Glenisla pub, where we enjoyed lunch, had the best steak pie! Graeme drove us around again, and he was just as determined as we were to find the house. After much searching, we finally found it and were so excited!

The cute couple who lived there let us in and look around and told us about the history of the home. It really was a neat experience. I was even able to find some Robertson tartan souvenirs to bring home and wear proudly!

If you don’t have ancestors from anywhere near Edinburgh, you can skip the day trip and spend an extra day in Edinburgh—there’s plenty to do! Although the countryside is beautiful!

Day 10: Edinburgh

We enjoyed simply walking around Edinburgh and basking in the architecture and culture. Sounds of bagpipes echoed from outside of one of the churches and we just stopped to listen for a while. We also visited the National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Princes Street Gardens.

There is so much history and beauty to enjoy in Edinburgh! One of our favorites included an old cannon called Mons Meg. We loved this because Meg is my mom’s name!

And don’t miss the cranachan—a traditional Scottish dessert with berries and cream. Yum!

As a recap, here’s the basic 10-day London and Edinburgh itinerary

Day 1: Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Thames River Cruise, Borough Market Day 2: Warner Bros Studios Day 3: Double-decker bus tour, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London, Tower Bridge, London Eye Day 4: Day trip to Stonehenge, Bath, & Windsor Day 5: Day trip to Oxford Day 6: Temple, afternoon tea, Broadway show Day 7: Train to Edinburgh Day 8: Day trip to Loch Lomond, Stirling Castle, Trossachs National Park Day 9: Day trip to Glenisla or stay in Edinburgh Day 10: National Museum of Scotland, Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Princes Street Gardens

Yes it’s a lot, but it’s worth it! This was one of my favorite trips I’ve ever been on. This 10-day London and Edinburgh itinerary made some of our favorite memories of all time! What questions do you have about London or Edinburgh?

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11 thoughts on “ A 10-Day London and Edinburgh Itinerary ”

Wonderful itinerary! These are two of my favorite cities. When my sisters, niece, mom and I did this tour, we added a couple of days in Dublin, Ireland as well! Edinburgh is my favorite city in the world.

We wanted to do Ireland as well, but not enough time! Hopefully we can go back and see Ireland too!

This is so inspiring! SO many places that I would LOVE to explore as I am Scottish too!

It really was so neat to see the places where our ancestors came from!

Visiting London and Edinburgh is definitely on the list! We have spent a brief time in London, but not with the kids, and definitely not long enough to explore everything it has to offer.

Oh! London is on bucket list now Edinburg too!

I was surprised at how much I loved Scotland. I definitely want to go back!

Wow, this really is the perfect itinerary! I’d love to experience all the things you’ve listed here. London and Edinburgh are definitely on my list; I just don’t know how I’m ever going to do everything! This makes is seem like it’s manageable. Someday!

Right??!! I don’t know how I’m ever going to get everywhere on my list! But I just keep chipping away a little at a time and hope that someday I’ll get everywhere!

We’ve been to London so would love to take these day trips! And love that you can just hop on a train to Edinburgh! Great guide and pics!

Wow, this is the most amazing trip ever! I want to go and do all of this!

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A Life Away

Best of Both: London and Edinburgh Itinerary

When friends ask me for help planning their UK trips, the two places that always come up are London and Edinburgh. These two cities are popular for a reason, but it can be a challenge to visit both on one trip. That’s why I came up with this 7-day London and Edinburgh itinerary to help you experience two UK icons on a single trip.

Know before you go

✈️ Closest airport: London Heathrow (LHR) is the largest London airport, Edinburgh Airport (EDI) for Edinburgh

💷 Currency: Great British Pound (£) is used throughout the UK.

🕰️ Time zone: The entire UK is in one time zone, Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). From late March to late October, the whole country moves an hour forward to British Summer Time (BST).

🔌 Plugging in electronics: Electric sockets in the UK are unlike those in Europe or the US. If you are visiting from outside the UK, you will likely need this universal travel adaptor .

📱 Using your smartphone: If you want to use your phone data while visiting, the easiest and cheapest solution is to purchase an e-sim for your trip.

🚘 Car rentals: Americans can rent a car in the UK with a valid US driver’s license from any state. Driving in the UK is not for the faint of heart, and I recommend checking out my guide to driving in the UK before you set out!

🚊 Train booking: All major UK cities, and many other destinations in between, can be reached by train. Check train routes, ticket prices, and get your tickets directly through Trainline .

This article contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a small commission when you make a purchase. Affiliate links cost you nothing to use, and they help keep my content free – a win-win! For more information, see the affiliate disclosure .

Why Visit London and Edinburgh

London and Edinburgh are the best known cities in the United Kingdom, and are well worth your time to visit. London is my favorite city in the whole world, and Edinburgh is the type of unique destination that’s like nowhere else on earth. If you’re planning a first trip to the UK, or want to see the top highlights in these two cities, then this itinerary is the shortcut you need for travel planning an ideal trip.

London and Edinburgh 7 day Itinerary

Time to get exploring! Here’s our plan.

Day 1: Arrive in London

The most common airport for international arrivals is London Heathrow, so we are starting from there. If you are flying into a different airport, look at my London Travel Tips for getting into London advice.

Travel into central London from Heathrow

Follow signs for the Underground and make your way to the purple Elizabeth Line . Ignore the signs for the Heathrow Express – the Elizabeth line will be less expensive and more convenient for our hotel.

Exit at Tottenham Court Road and take the less than 3 minute walk to The Bloomsbury Hotel.

Travel Tip: The easiest way to pay your way on any London Underground line is to bring a contactless credit card or ApplePay that you can tap to pay. Simply tap the card or your device on the yellow pad on the entrance gate, then again at the exit gate. Be sure to tap at both ends even if gates are open so you aren’t accidentally charged the maximum daily rate.

Where to stay in London 

The Bloomsbury Hotel is one of my top picks for places to stay on your first visit to London because it is easy to get to with luggage in hand. It is also a lovely hotel that is remarkably quiet considering its central location.

“The staff was very friendly and professional from the front desk to housekeeping. Everyone made you feel welcome and all were eager to assist. The atmosphere was so inviting and relaxing. The room was spacious and well appointed. The beds and linens were exceptionally comfortable. The toiletries smelled so good I didn’t bother to unpack mine.” Debra from United States of America ( see more reviews )

Day 1 in London options for things to do

If you’ve arrived early in the day, then drop off your luggage and let’s go beat back the jet lag! If you arrive late enough to check directly into your room, then resist the urge to nap. Our goal today is to stay up as late as we can to adjust to the time change.

Once you’re ready to explore, you can head straight to the nearby British Museum to see its massive collections. Highlights include the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. 

Entrance to the British Museum is free for the standard exhibits, and you can usually go without making advance bookings. There is a booking system online to secure a timed entry slot, which is useful if you’ll be visiting during peak times when admission numbers rise.

Need something to eat first? Go past the British Museum and cross Russell Square to find Fortitude Bakehouse . Whether you want a savoury sausage roll or a creme-filled pastry, they’ll get you sorted. Coffee is also great here if you need a pick me up. 

In the late afternoon or evening, walk into Covent Garden and explore the Seven Dials District. Don’t miss stepping into Neal’s Yard to see one of the prettiest colorful courtyards in London. 

The Seven Dials Market makes for a great casual dinner destination with food stalls catering to all tastes. There is even a cheese-based restaurant that serves dishes along a conveyor belt, like a very British take on sushi restaurants.

Day 1 locations map

Day 2: London exploring

It’s time to go see what makes London so special!

Borough Market

We are going to start our day at one of London’s most famous markets – the Borough Market. I recommend pre-booking a guided tour of the Borough Market to get the most out of exploring this massive space. Tours typically start at 10 or 10:30am, so you won’t need to jump from bed at dawn.

“The tour have a very good affordable price, and was absolutely amazing! The guide was super friendly and helpful, and told all the stories very well! The places he showed us were fantastic, and the food was delicious. Super recommended!” Mattia from Italy ( see more reviews )

You can get to Borough Market easily by heading to Tottenham Court Station and taking the Northern Line to Waterloo, where you will change to the Jubilee Line to London Bridge. From London Bridge station, it’s a short walk to Borough Market. Give yourself 30 minutes to get there in case of wrong turns or interesting distractions along the way.

Walk across Tower Bridge 

After exploring Borough Market, we are going to walk to the Tower of London. Go back out of the market to Tooley Street. When you reach London Bridge station again, you will see More London Place. Turn left and follow this path to the river. 

I really love this path because you’ll have tall buildings to either side which force your view either ahead to the Victoria era Tower Bridge, or behind you to modern skyscraper The Shard. It’s a great little visual stretch between the past and present.

When you reach the river, turn right into Potters Fields Park. This grassy stretch is the perfect place to get That Picture of Tower Bridge. 

Once you’re done snapping photos, take the stairs up to Tower Bridge and walk across the river. The Tower of London is directly opposite Potters Fields Park, so you’ll just head back down to the river path and walk along to the Tower entrance. 

Tower of London

The Tower of London is a treasure trove of British history. It is also a literal treasure trove since it is home to the British Crown Jewels. Don’t skip the free Beefeater tour while you’re there to get an insider’s view on Tower life and history. I really like the White Tower section for exploring on your own. It is home to a parade of armor (including a dubious set owned by Henry VIII) and a disarming dragon. 

Travel Tip: You do need to book your entry tickets for the Tower of London in advance. As one of London’s most popular attractions, tickets regularly sell out. If you went on a Borough Market tour, then a 2:00 or 2:30pm entrance time for the Tower is ideal.

River trip along the Thames

Back out on the riverside, head to the Tower pier with signs for Uber Boat by Thames Clippers. We are going to combine our transportation needs with some more sightseeing! 

The Thames Clipper boats operate on the same payment system as the Tube and London buses. Simply tap your card on the payment pad at the pier and catch a westbound boat. 

You will stay onboard until you reach Westminster Pier. Along the way, you’ll have river views of more London icons. Look for Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, the Millennium Bridge, St. Paul’s Cathedral, and the London Eye. As you approach Westminster Pier, you’ll see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.

Travel Tip: Thames Clippers run every 30 minutes from Tower Pier for most of the day. The trip from Tower Pier to Westminster takes about 30 minutes.

Big Ben and Westminster Abbey

You can’t miss Big Ben from the river, so just head in its direction to find our next stop. We are only admiring from the outside here, but there’s lots to see. Across from Westminster Tube station is a whole stretch of red phone boxes to help you get your perfect London photo. 

There is a green space directly across from Parliament, and Westminster Abbey is just over the road. Admire the beautiful exterior of Westminster Abbey (you’ll need to skip some of my earlier recommendations if you want time to tour the interior). 

Double decker bus 

When you’re ready to move on from Parliament and Westminster Abbey, head for the Westminster Abbey bus stop on Victoria Street. You want to be on the side of the road where traffic is headed back toward Parliament. Catch the number 24 bus for a scenic ride back toward the hotel.

The bus ride will take around 30 minutes (traffic dependent), and along the way you will pass 10 Downing Street, Trafalgar Square, and Chinatown. Head upstairs for the best views (I prefer to sit as close to the front as possible and pick a seat on the right side when you’re facing forward). Exit the bus at Tottenham Court Road Station and take the short walk back to the Bloomsbury Hotel to recuperate a bit.

Day 2 evening options

This is a great night to book theatre tickets on the West End. London Theatre Direct often has the best prices for shows. I’ve never had a bad time at a show in London.

If a leisurely dinner is more your speed, then look to Soho for some of the best restaurants in London. Meatlovers should try Blacklock , while Inko Nito is a great bet for Japanese deliciousness with a hint of Korea and California. 

Prefer a British pub evening? Bloomsbury Tavern is a short walk from the hotel and is every inch the pub experience you’re picturing.

Day 2 locations map

Day 3: Day trip to Hampton Court Palace

Today we are going to head outside of central London to visit a palace that has seen more than its fair share of royal drama. Henry VIII spent time here, along with each of his six wives. You can still spy Anne Boleyn’s initials carved into the Banqueting Hall design. Meanwhile, the Tudor kitchens give an interactive look at how the palace functioned during Henry’s time.

The palace is massive and shows off architecture and trends across centuries. There is plenty here to please everyone, including:

• Royal history
• Architecture trends spanning centuries
• Film locations from Bridgerton, Cinderella, and more
• Elaborate natural beauty in the gardens
• Hedge maze and play area for kids

You’re going to love it! It’s also a nice palate cleanser after the bustle of central London.

How to book travel from London to Hampton Court Palace

Hampton Court Palace is in Zone 6 of the London transportation network. This means that you can tap to pay for tickets just as you have been for travel on the Tube. However, tap to pay won’t give you access to discount fares that become more common as you head out of the central zones. 

I recommend booking ahead with Trainline , for these reasons:

• Trainline will automatically check for available discounts on your ticket and compare prices with daily travelcards – no need to stand confused at the ticket machine as you wonder what ticket to purchase
• You will get email notifications if there are disruptions, like rail strikes or engineering work, that might put a wrench in your travels – making it easier to pivot plans if necessary
• Tickets from Trainline are delivered by email with easy to use QR codes, or you receive a redemption code to print your ticket at the train station

Here’s exactly how to book your tickets to Hampton Court Palace:

1. Find available trains on Trainline

Open the Trainline website , and input your travel dates and preferred travel times. Note that most tickets will give you flexibility on which train you take, so it is unlikely you will be stuck with only one departure or return time.

2. Choose your tickets

Trainline will display train times for your journey to and from Hampton Court that match your preferences. It will also show the standard price for each trip, as well as any discount rates that apply.

In this example, tapping to pay at the ticket barriers would buy single anytime tickets for a total price of £18. Trainline found that an off-peak travelcard works for your travel times and also offers unlimited Tube rides when you get back to London – at a total cost of £16.79. Discounts especially add up for groups of three or more, and when you are traveling with children since they are eligible for reduced fares.

3. Pick up your tickets

Standard tickets come directly to your email and provide you with a QR code to scan at the ticket gates. If you purchase a travelcard, you will instead get a redemption code to pick up your tickets at the station. Just follow the prompts on one of the ticketing machines at the train station, or head to a station window for human assistance.

How to get to Hampton Court Palace

From your hotel, walk to Tottenham Court Road Underground station and grab the Northern Line southbound to Waterloo. 

Travel Tip: Waterloo is one of London’s most bustling train stations, and it’s really common to stumble into promotions and events here. From free ice cream samples to Jurassic Park movie statues, I’ve seen a lot here. No promises because it varies by the day, but keep your eyes peeled just in case something interesting is on.

At Waterloo, pick up your train tickets if necessary and refer to the arrival and departure boards to find the train platform for your journey. Then just head through the gates and go find a spot on the train. You’re more likely to find open seats and less crowding the further you walk down the platform before getting on the train.

Depart the train at Hampton Court station. When you walk out of the station, turn right and walk across the bridge spanning the Thames. You can’t miss the massive form of Hampton Court Palace just across the river.

Tickets and tours for Hampton Court Palace

You can secure tickets for Hampton Court Palace in advance , which I recommend just in case. If you are visiting outside of peak times like school holidays, then tickets may be available at the entrance.

Touring on your own is the most common choice for visitors and is perfectly fine. If you really want to dive into the tales of ghosts, executions, and secret history that make this place special, then I recommend booking an expert-led tour .

“Ms. Clarke exceeded all expectations! I enjoyed the private tour and the information she shared. This tour was absolutely worth every penny and made my visit to Hampton Court all that more enjoyable and informative! Highly recommended. – Clifton from United States” Clifton from United States of America ( see more reviews )

On-site cafes will have you sorted for lunch at Hampton Court Palace. If you prefer heading out for a bit to a local restaurant, I recommend The Six in The King’s Arms hotel for delicious seasonal menus. 

Day 3 evening options

Hampton Court can easily keep you busy for the day, but you can make it back into London in time for dinner and a night out. If you haven’t visited the West End yet, now is your chance.

Make sure you rest up this evening because tomorrow we are off to Scotland!

Day 4: Travel to Edinburgh

Today we are checking out of our London hotel and taking the train to Edinburgh. Trains run pretty regularly throughout the day, so you can either start your day in London and arrive late in Edinburgh or set off early for more Edinburgh exploring time. 

Train times vary, but it typically takes about 5 hours to travel from London to Edinburgh by train . When you consider that you’re starting and ending in the city center and don’t need to set aside hours for security screening, it can be just as fast as flying.

Whichever departure time you prefer, you do need to book your train tickets early. Booking at least 30 days out gives you the best choice of train times and you’re much more likely to get a good price on your ticket. Tickets start at £34.90 on Trainline .

Travel Tip: Combine hotel and transportation costs with a trip on the Caledonian Sleeper service. Running six nights a week, you board in the evening at London Euston, then arrive in Edinburgh just after 7am the following morning. Ticketing opens up to 12 months in advance, and booking early is recommended as this popular service does sell out. Be sure to book a sleeper car, not a standard seat (unless you’re happy to sleep sitting up)!

Morning in London ideas

If you opt for an afternoon departure to Edinburgh, consider checking out one of these smaller London highlights in the morning:

• The Wallace Collection. Artwork and armory housed in a historic townhouse with a gorgeous on-site cafe. Nearest Tube station: Bond Street
• Sir John Soane’s Museum. Eccentric cabinet of curiosities type museum made up of the belongings of a 19th century collector. Nearest Tube station: Holborn
• Churchill War Rooms. Peek into the secret underground headquarters of the British war effort from WWII. Some rooms exactly as they were left when the war ended. Nearest Tube station: Westminster
• Camden Market. Slightly alternative edge market great for artsy finds. A great pick if you are traveling with a picky teenager. Nearest Tube station: Camden Town

What to expect on the train from London to Edinburgh

Your train reservation should tell you where to find your seat on the train. Each train coach is assigned a letter, then individual seats have a number. For instance, this booking would have had me in Coach D, seat 45:

The coach letters will be displayed on the outside of the train and there are often markers on the platform that shows where each coach usually stops. Once onboard, the seat numbers are displayed just below the overhead storage racks.

If you don’t like your assigned seat on the train, you can sit in any seat that is not reserved. There’s typically a digital sign at each seat indicating whether the seat is reserved or open.

The train ride itself is relaxing, and there is a lovely stretch along the coast as you get closer to Scotland. Trains usually have a cafe car where you can pick up snacks, or you are welcome to bring food with you when you board.

Arriving in Edinburgh and where to stay

Trains arrive at Edinburgh Waverley station, which is conveniently in the heart of central Edinburgh. 

We are going to check in at the Radisson Blu Edinburgh City Centre . This hotel is only a five minute walk from the train station right on the Royal Mile. The exterior of the building even looks like a castle (though it actually only dates to 1990).

“The location was perfect for our first visit to Edinburgh: central on the Royal Mile. Easy to access key sites and Waverly Train Station on foot. The staff was very friendly. Our room was large by European standards. Room amenities were much appreciated: kettle, tea/coffee fixings, fridge, USB ports, Euro outlet (not just UK), large counter in the bathroom. Access to the spa pool and steam room (this was a nice surprise for us). Breakfast was expansive and plentiful with lots of hot and cold items. I don’t usually like to stay at US chain hotels when I travel to Europe, but this place was fantastic and I would stay here again. Since it was our first visit to Edinburgh, I was willing to pay a bit more money than I usually would for accommodations.” Kimberly from United States of America ( see more reviews )

Day 4 Edinburgh evening ideas

Whenever you arrive in Edinburgh, I recommend sticking to the Old Town, and especially the Royal Mile on your first day. For the evening, meet up with a guide to learn about Edinburgh’s dark side on a nighttime walking tour .

“ What a brilliant evening! Our guide, Alasdair Gourlay, was really excellent – knew his stuff inside out, spoke very clearly, was approachable, friendly and funny, and had ready answers to every weird and wonderful question we could think of. The tour itself was a good mix of walking and talking and gave us plenty to talk about and to Google afterwards – a fascinating introduction to some of Edinburgh’s darker history. Can’t recommend it enough, worth every penny and then some.” Ioana from United Kingdom ( see more reviews )

Day 5: Explore Edinburgh’s Highlights

Today we are discovering the best of Edinburgh! Start the day with a walk down historic Cockburn Street and pick up a coffee and pastry from The Milkman coffee shop. 

Travel Tip: Walking in Edinburgh is a lot of up and down hills. Wear your comfiest walking shoes and give yourself some extra time to catch your breath along the way.

Edinburgh Castle

Next, let’s head up to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. This spectacular fortress sits above the city, keeping watch even now. Visiting inside the castle is well worth your time to learn about its military history and enjoy some of the best views in the city.

Book your entrance tickets for Edinburgh Castle in advance, as it does sometimes sell out. For not much more, you can take a guided tour around the castle to make sure you don’t miss any of the best parts. 

Grassmarket and Victoria Street

After leaving the castle, make your way down the winding alleys to Grassmarket for a scenic view of the castle from below. This area has lots of restaurants, so makes for a good lunch spot. Mary’s Milk Bar has delicious gelato if you’re more in a snack mood.

Walk back up the curving Victoria Street, window shopping as you go. This is one of Edinburgh’s picture perfect areas that looks made for Instagram.

When you get to the end of Victoria Street, turn left and head to the Royal Mile. 

Royal Mile and Princes Street

The Royal Mile refers to the road between Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. You’ve already been along some of this stretch, but I recommend taking a stroll over to St. Giles Cathedral to see its beautiful interior.

After visiting St. Giles Cathedral, make your way down to Princes Street for a close up look at Scott Monument. This gothic Victorian memorial to Sir Walter Scott is another Edinburgh icon. 

After visiting the Scott Monument, walk back down Princes Street into the Princes Street Gardens. This lovely greenspace is perfect for resting your weary legs or getting even more photos of Edinburgh Castle as it looms high above you.

If you haven’t run out of energy yet, the National Galleries of Scotland is nearby and offers beautiful collections of European and Scottish artwork.

Day 5 Edinburgh evening ideas

You’ve probably worked up an appetite today, so try out one of these great spots for dinner:

• Cannonball Restaurant – historic building with a view of Edinburgh Castle
• Howie’s Restaurant – delicious seasonal food on Victoria Street
• Makars Mash Bar – casual eats with a serious focus on mashed potatoes

After dinner, consider heading back out to enjoy one of Scotland’s most famous treats – whisky! Take a History of Whisky small group tour with tasting to learn about whisky’s history in Edinburgh and have a taste of four samples in a unique tasting room.

“The tour starts at the Royal Mile. Fred was our guide. During the one hour tour through the old town she gave us a lot of information about the whisky production and the importance for the inhabitants. Fred also did the tasting afterwards. We got a lot of exciting information about the different whiskys. I enjoyed the tour very much, especially in the beautiful and cosy room where the tasting took place.” Maria from Switzerland ( see more reviews )

Day 5 locations map

Day 6: Day trip to Scottish Highlands

We are going to get an early start today and go explore the Scottish Highlands! While it’s possible to rent a car and go explore on your own, the roads around Scotland are very narrow by American standards and take a confident driver to navigate. I recommend leaving the driving to a pro and listening to stories of this magical region along the way.

🚘 I recommend and use Discover Cars for finding the best rates and convenient pick up points for rental cars in the UK.

For a fantastic day trip tour, join The Hairy Coo on their Highlands tour to Loch Ness, Glencoe, and more . The tour meets outside Deacon’s House Cafe, which is just a short walk up the Royal Mile from your hotel. 

Note that Deacon’s House Cafe may not be open before your tour departs, so I instead recommend a quick stop at Black Sheep Coffee on North Bridge for a pastry and coffee on your way.

“Can’t believe how much ground -both physical and informational- we covered in the span of a single day with Craig. Super entertaining tour and, despite the mileage, time will end up flying by!” Giulia from Italy ( see more reviews )

Day 7: Edinburgh and departure plans

Sadly, it’s time to wrap up this UK trip. If you have time before your departure for a little more exploring in Edinburgh, then I recommend a visit to picturesque Dean’s Village. This former mill district looks like a fairytale village stuck into Edinburgh.

Departure plans from Edinburgh from train station or airport

If you are returning to London by train, you’ll depart from Waverley station where we arrived. If you are instead starting your journey home from Edinburgh airport, then I recommend either taking a taxi or city tram to the airport. A taxi can be arranged to pick you up from the hotel ( estimated taxi fare to Edinburgh Airport: £29-35 ). 

The nearest tram stop will be at St. Andrews Square, a little past the Scott Monument. Tickets for the tram can be purchased from machines at the tram stop and cost £7.50 per adult .   

London and Edinburgh Itinerary FAQs

Can i drive from london to edinburgh.

It is certainly possible to drive from London to Edinburgh, but it takes about eight hours of driving to get there. I don’t recommend driving on this itinerary because it will take away from your time in London and Edinburgh. 

If you have more days available, then driving with stops near York or Newcastle will break up the journey and let you see sights like York Minster or Hadrian’s Wall.

Travel Tip: Read my guide to driving in the UK for what to expect on the left side of the road!

Can I take a day trip from London to Edinburgh?

Edinburgh has too much to offer, and is too far away, to make a good day trip from London. Trains take at least 4.5 hours to make the journey, and even a flight takes 1.5 hours plus time spent traveling to the airport and getting through security.

For a better day trip from London, consider heading to Bath to see how the ancient Romans did spa days or go to Oxford to walk in the footsteps of literary greats.

Is it faster to fly or take the train between London and Edinburgh?

From airport to airport, it is faster to fly between London and Edinburgh in approximately 1.5 hours. However, flying requires travel from the city center to the airport plus flight security screening. Add 30 minutes on both ends for travel to/from the airport, plus at least an hour for security, and now that flight time looks more like 4.5+ hours of travel time.

Trains from London city center to Edinburgh city center take between 4.5 and 6 hours, depending on stops . I prefer the train because I don’t have to navigate airport security and generally find the whole experience a lot more pleasant.

Is it cheaper to fly or take the train between London and Edinburgh?

Cost is where flights sometimes take an edge over train travel between London and Edinburgh. If you pack light and take a budget airline like EasyJet, then you can find discount flights from £30 . 

Trains between London and Edinburgh start from £34.90 and don’t require you to navigate airline baggage fees! The cheapest fares are only available if you book well in advance.

Is there a sleeper train between London and Edinburgh?

Yes! The Caledonian Sleeper runs six nights a week from London Euston up to Scotland, including a stop in Edinburgh. Trains depart at 11:30pm from London and arrive in Edinburgh just after 7am the following morning. 

A classic room with a twin bunk starts from £205, not bad for combining your hotel and transport needs in one price. Upgrade to a Club Room or Caledonian Double for an en-suite bathroom. Caledonian Doubles offer a double bed instead of bunks and includes your breakfast.

Ticketing opens up to 12 months in advance, and booking early is recommended as this popular service does sell out. Be sure to book a sleeper car, not a standard seat (unless you’re happy to sleep sitting up)!

Where can I stop between London and Edinburgh?

If you’d like to break up your train journey from England to Scotland, then I recommend a stop in York. From the York train station, it’s a short walk to visit the huge 13th-century York Minster or wander the crooked medieval streets in the York Shambles.

How many days are enough to visit London and Scotland?

The ideal trip to London and Scotland is between 7 and 10 days. This gives you enough time to appreciate each place you visit.

I think this seven-day itinerary is the perfect blend of seeing highlights in London and Scotland, while not being too rushed. Anything less than seven days may leave you feeling frazzled, or like you spent more time traveling than sightseeing. If you must limit yourself to fewer than 7 days, then I recommend picking either London or Edinburgh as your focus this time and plan a future trip to visit the other.

How many days do you need to see Edinburgh?

You need at least one full day to explore only in Edinburgh. That’s enough time to wander the Royal Mile and visit Edinburgh Castle. To explore the city more fully, then extending to two or three days will give you time to explore the New City and take a hike up Arthur’s Seat for panoramic views over the city.

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Home » Travel » Destinations » A Lovely London to Scotland Road Trip Itinerary (Self Drive)

A Lovely London to Scotland Road Trip Itinerary (Self Drive)

After taking a summer road trip from London to Scotland, I’m convinced it’s the best way to enjoy this amazing island. This self drive UK holiday is the perfect combination of freedom, exploration, and relaxation.

Not having to worry about train timetables or tour schedules means you can see the country’s storybook villages and famous sights at your own pace. And I guarantee this charming UK road trip itinerary will make up for the mild terror of driving on narrow country lanes!

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Whether you’re after chocolate box cottages in the Cotswolds or a refreshing hike in the Lake District fells, this agenda has something that’s sure to please every traveler in the car.

This series of day trips from London to Scotland spans 9 days and covers 10 beautiful places to visit in Britain. If you already have London travel plans, simply skip the first two days for a 1 week UK road trip itinerary.

And don’t be concerned by the long list of destinations. My great British road trip may seem ambitious, but the country is more compact than you might think.

Even on a late summer weekend, the drive from Edinburgh to London can be done in a single day. You’ll even have time to stop for some Pret sandwiches along the way (I recommend the Scottish smoked salmon).

P.S: If you need to rent a car for this trip, I recommend Rentalcars.com !

London to Scotland Road Trip Itinerary

Days 1 & 2: london, day 3: windsor castle, stonehenge, and bath.

• Day 4: Cotswolds

Day 5: Gloucester and Stratford-upon-Avon

Day 6: lake district, day 7: north berwick, days 8 & 9: edinburgh.

• The Best Time to do This UK Road Trip Itinerary

Travel Tips for Your Self Drive UK Holiday

Map of london to scotland road trip destinations.

It would be crazy to visit the UK and not spend a couple days in London. The Big Smoke is an incredible city bursting with history, great food, and classic British charm.

It’s also a bit tricky to navigate and explore to the fullest, which is why I recommend reading my London sightseeing tips before your trip .

RELATED: 15 Non-Touristy Things to do in London

If you’ve never visited London, you might feel overwhelmed trying to squeeze everything into two days. To help you make the most of your time, I’ve outlined a rough itinerary that mixes popular attractions with local gems:

• Natural History Museum : Spend a few magical hours exploring this “Cathedral to Nature”, which includes an interactive dinosaur exhibit and a suspended great blue whale skeleton.
• Westminster Abbey : Take in the gorgeous architecture and famous tombs of England’s historical figures, but make sure you buy your ticket online to avoid the long queue!
• Buckingham Palace : Walk past the iconic residence of the British monarch and maybe catch a glimpse of the Changing of the Guard.
• Afternoon Tea : There are dozens of elegant places serving afternoon tea near Buckingham Palace, including The Wolseley and Palm Court Bar . But if you’re traveling on a budget, try these places for cheap eats in London instead.
• Hyde Park : Stroll through this massive green space to see beautiful flowers, the Serpentine pond, and the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain.
• Kensington Palace : Just past Hyde Park, you’ll find the royal residence of Kensington Palace, a stunning Christopher Wren building that’s home to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, among others.
• Notting Hill : Enjoy a walk past the neighborhood’s pastel-colored row homes and do a bit of snacking and shopping at Portobello Road Market.
• Pub Dinner : Finish the day with a classic pub dinner near your accommodation, or at The Prince Edward in Notting Hill.

• St. Paul’s Cathedral : My personal favorite place in London, this opulent cathedral has beautiful frescoes and incredible panoramic views of the city from the upper dome.
• Leadenhall Market : Harry Potter fans will recognize this covered Victorian market as a setting for Diagon Alley. Grab lunch from one of the building’s many restaurants, including the delectable Cheese at Leadenhall.
• Sky Garden : Book advance tickets for this free skyscraper view over London, and enjoy a drink in the lush indoor garden.
• Tower of London : Learn about London’s bloody history with a Yeoman Warder tour of this residence-turned-prison-turned-tourist attraction. I strongly suggest buying a skip the line ticket , as queues can get quite long!
• Borough Market : Experience the diverse flavors of the city at this bustling marketplace, where visitors can purchase everything from paella to pumpkin fudge.
• Dinner at an Indian Restaurant : London’s Indian food scene is outstanding, from affordable local spots like Kensington’s Masala to elegant dining experiences like The Cinnamon Club .

A note on car rental : Because of London’s notorious traffic, I highly recommend reserving a car somewhere close to Heathrow Airport. That way, you won’t need to drive through the city during the morning rush. Or, you could simply take the train from London to Windsor and pick up your rental car after you finish touring the castle

Where to Stay in London

The city is well-connected by tube, so you don’t need to splurge on a hotel near Buckingham Palace. But you do want to be within a 5-7 minute walk of a decent tube station. Here are a few areas I recommend:

• Notting Hill : If you want a quiet place to stay, grab a hotel or serviced flat in this neighborhood famous for its colorful homes.
• South Kensington : This posh area has excellent shops and restaurants, and it’s on the tube lines for Heathrow Airport and central London.
• Paddington : There are plenty of hotel options near Paddington Station that will fit any budget.
• Southwark : Situated across the river from the Tower of London, Southwark has quality accommodation for reasonable prices.
• Wombat’s City Hostel : This highly-review hostel chain has a great Whitechapel location and fills up fast.

There are plenty of lovely VRBO apartment rental options in London as well. They’re an excellent way to experience authentic London life (and save a bit of money on dining out)!

Get some rest after day two, because you’ll need to be up bright and early for day three of this self drive UK holiday!

RELATED: Ultimate 4 Days in London Itinerary

I’m going to be honest: this day is packed from morning til night. If you’re road tripping from London to Edinburgh with young kids, it might be tough to squeeze in all of these places. In that case, I’d cut out sightseeing in Bath and just head there for a night’s rest.

Visiting Windsor is a double treat. Not only do you get to wander a 1,000-year-old castle, but you’ll also walk through the charming Windsor village on your way there (pictured at the top of this post).

If you already have your car, you’ll find plenty of parking options within walking distance of Windsor Castle. I recommend using one of the car parks south of the main area (either William Street or Victoria Street), as it’s the most efficient walking route to see both the village and castle.

For the speediest entry, book your tickets online . The castle doesn’t open until 10am, and you’ll want to get in as soon as possible.

Once inside the gate, it takes around two hours to explore the grounds and rooms. Highlights include the opulent state apartments, gilded grand reception room, and breathtaking St. George’s Chapel, where the Duke and Duchess of Sussex were married in 2018.

Once you leave the castle, pop into a cafe or Pret A Manger for a quick lunch before you depart. Driving from Windsor to Stonehenge takes around 60-90 minutes depending on traffic, so you’ll want to be on the road by 12pm.

Despite being called a tourist trap by some, I found Stonehenge to be a highlight of my UK road trip itinerary.

This world wonder and UNESCO heritage site still holds mysteries after centuries of research. And the experience of seeing the stones up close is something I won’t soon forget.

Although it’s possible to visit Stonehenge for free , the amount of walking involved would take a serious chunk of time out of your day.

Instead, pay the admission fee, which gives you access to a shuttle to and from the stones. Your ticket also includes free parking in the massive Visitor’s Centre lot, and admission to the museum exhibition full of archaeological finds.

Get your skip the line Stonehenge tickets to save time!

It’s an hour’s drive from Stonehenge to Bath, so I recommend departing Stonehenge by 2:30pm.

Bath is best known for its Roman architecture, and I can see why. The view as you approach the city looks like something from the Italian countryside.

Orange roofs and whitewashed buildings line the hills above the city center, and the Roman Baths are surprisingly well-preserved given they’re nearly 2,000 years old.

If you want to see these famous Roman Baths, they should be your first stop upon arrival. After that, you should have time to check out Bath Abbey and the surrounding city center.

I also recommend walking past the famous Royal Crescent, a long curving row of Georgian houses facing Royal Victoria Park.At this point in the UK road trip, you’ll likely be exhausted!

Instead of navigating the city yourself, consider booking a guided tour of the Roman Baths and city highlights.

Once you’ve finished sightseeing, wind down with a nice pub dinner. Bath has dozens of old character pubs, including The Huntsman and The Raven.

Luckily, Bath is only a 30 minute drive from tomorrow’s first destination in the Cotswolds, making it an ideal place to spend the night .

Save me for later!

Day 4: Cotswolds

Day four of this London to Scotland road trip is all about picturesque English villages. You’ll spend the day meandering through the Cotswolds, an official Area of Natural Beauty.

The itinerary starts in Castle Combe , commonly cited as England’s most beautiful village. From there, you’ll drive north to Painswick , where a hilltop climb leads to sweeping views over the Severn Valley.

After that, grab lunch on your way to the Slaughters , a mildly disturbing name for this pair of lovely residential areas. Finally, you’ll end the day in Chipping Campden , whose famous church and high street make for a relaxing end to a day of sightseeing.

You’ll be covering a lot of ground in one day, so I recommend spending the night in Chipping Campden . From here, it won’t take long to hop back on the A44 to start driving to Gloucester.

Read the full Cotswolds day trip itinerary here.

Literature lovers and architecture enthusiasts will rejoice over today’s agenda. Aside from its abundance of British charm, Gloucester is home to an impressive cathedral, as well as a few places that inspired Beatrix Potter’s famous works.

After a morning in Gloucester, it’s off to Shakespeare’s hometown for a dose of half-timbered buildings and mementos to the Bard.

Gloucester is an interesting mix of ancient and contemporary. There’s the famous Gloucester Cathedral, an 11th century marvel of stained glass and blended Gothic and Romanesque architecture. It’s long, ornate corridor was also used as a filming location for several Harry Potter movies.

Just a few blocks west of the cathedral stand the Gloucester Docks, with their restored Victorian warehouses looming over the waterfront.

Finally, head up the high street to College Court, a narrow U-shaped alley that’s home to The House of the Tailor of Gloucester. This building inspired the eponymous Beatrix Potter book, and now serves as a shop and museum dedicated to the author.

Gloucester is very walkable, so I recommend parking in the large lot next to the Docks and making a circuit through the town. You’ll probably need around 2 hours to see the highlights, plus some time for lunch.

Stratford-upon-Avon

After lunch, head an hour north to the land of Shakespeare. Thanks to the Bard’s fame, Stratford-upon-Avon remains remarkably well preserved.

The timbered buildings and large flower displays make it feel like you’ve stumbled upon a piece of old England (even if one of those historic facades conceals a Subway).

Aside from the architecture, the main Stratford-upon-Avon attractions include Shakespeare’s Birthplace, Shakespeare’s New Place (his retirement home), the Royal Shakespeare Company theatre, and Holy Trinity Church, where Shakespeare is entombed.

The easiest way to access all the Shakespeare residences (including Anne Hathaway’s cottage) is to buy a multi-entry ticket online .

All of these places are walkable as a large circuit. Stratford Greenway has the cheapest parking, though it’s slightly farther out from the main town. Otherwise, you’ll find plenty of car parks on the northern side of the town.

The only highlight that’s a bit far to reach on foot is Anne Hathaway’s cottage, the charming former residence of Shakespeare’s wife. I recommend stopping by the cottage on your way into the town.

To see all of the above, you’ll need around 3 hours. Keep in mind that it’s a 3-4 hour drive from Stratford-upon-Avon to Lake District, so plan your dinner accordingly. We had a light meal to tide us over, and then ate dinner at our Lake District inn.

To get the most out of tomorrow’s itinerary, plan to spend the night somewhere north of Manchester, or in one of the southern Lake District villages .

There are tons of charming VRBO rentals in the southern lakes area!

Day six is made for exploring the great outdoors. Though the Lake District sounds like a place for water sports, there are plenty activities that don’t involve boats and paddleboards. Here are a few ideas to help plan your day:

• If you’re on this London to Edinburgh road trip with your partner, check out this list of romantic Lake District breaks for couples .
• Fans of Beatrix Potter should visit Bowness-on-Windermere, where the World of Beatrix Potter brings Peter Rabbit and other tales to life.
• Waterfall chasers need to see Aira Force , a stunning waterfall reachable by an easy hike through the lush forest.
• For panoramic views amidst grazing sheep, head to Keswick village for the Latrigg walk , an incredible vista point over the village and Derwent water.

Wherever your plans may lead, you’ll want to spend the night a bit closer to the Scottish border. It’s a 3 hour drive from the northern Lake District to North Berwick, so I recommend staying in–or north of– Carlisle .

Beaches, castles, and coffee, oh my! North Berwick is one of my favorite places in Britain, so I couldn’t leave it off of this UK road trip itinerary.

The town is home to several beautiful beaches, with a combination of sand and rugged rock. After a stroll along the coast, head to Tantallon Castle, which stands in partial ruin on a seaside cliff.

On your way back, have a refreshing cup of coffee or tea with a view at Drift Cafe. Finally, round out the day in the lovely town center, where several pubs and ice cream shops serve locals and visitors alike.

Read the entire list of things to do in North Berwick here.

Edinburgh is so much more than Harry Potter locations and the Fringe Festival. The city’s incredible scenery–Gothic architecture, a hilltop Castle, and Arthur’s Seat peak–combine to create a magical atmosphere unlike any other.

Whether you’re a history buff, a bookish type, or Scotch lover, you’re sure to be enchanted by this Scottish wonderland.

There’s so much to explore in Edinburgh, including Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, the Meadows, and more. Fortunately, I’ve already written a complete itinerary for the city to help you plan your visit!

Read the entire 2 day Edinburgh itinerary here.

When is the Best Time to do This UK Road Trip Itinerary?

Because this road trip from London to Scotland doesn’t go north of Edinburgh, you can easily do this driving itinerary 9 months out of the year.

Due to the potential for snowy road conditions, I’d avoid December – February. And to avoid the crowds and major traffic, steer clear of August. That’s when everyone else is going on UK road trips.

It was late September when I completed this route, and it was a great balance of fine weather and reduced congestion. April and October would also be ideal for the same reasons. If you’re desperate to see London at Christmas, they typically start decorating the last week in November.

Here are a few helpful tips to make your drive across the UK a success:

• When driving on country roads, be prepared to pull off to let oncoming drivers pass. Many of the roads in the Cotswolds and the Lake District are not wide enough for two cars to pass side-by-side.
• Many British roads are not well-marked, so it’s best to use GPS and have a local map handy to avoid missing your turns.
• Have a cooler of snacks and drinks handy to keep everyone happy and hydrated.
• Be sure to pack a first aid kit and other roadside repair essentials before you depart.
• If you’re renting a car ( I recommend Rentalcars.com ), compare prices of dropping it off in Edinburgh vs. returning the car to its original location. It might be costly to drop off in a different city, but consider the petrol prices (and an extra night’s accommodation) of driving back down to London or Windsor.

My Favorite UK Travel Planning Books

These books win my travel blogger Seal of Approval for vacation planning:

• Lonely Planet: Great Britain’s Best Trips
• Rick Steves Great Britain
• Fodor’s Essential Great Britain: with the Best of England, Scotland & Wales

Click here to open the complete interactive map!

I hope I’ve convinced you to get behind the wheel for a London to Scotland road trip. If you have any questions about this itinerary, let me know in the comments section!

42 thoughts on “A Lovely London to Scotland Road Trip Itinerary (Self Drive)”

This is such a cool itinerary! I know lots of people who want to combine their holidays in Scotland with a trip to England and London, so that itinerary is gold! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks, Kathi! I really enjoyed this trip and hope others will feel the same way 🙂

Thank you for this helpful itinerary. I will follow your recommendation for my trip to UK on May.

Thanks so much! May is the perfect time to travel the UK. I hope you have a great trip 🙂

This itinerary is fantastic. Do you recommend to follow for a 10-days trip in July?

I’m glad you found it useful! July is a great time to visit, as the weather will be nice and warm. You’ll find the cities a bit more crowded in July (it’s peak travel season in Europe), but nothing too unreasonable. I hope you have a wonderful road trip 🙂

We may be in London in September 2019 for a work event and plan to tack on 7-10 days to see more of the U.K. Driving on the left side on narrow roads seems challenging. How did you find the transition? And any suggestions on a truncated itinerary using trains and or buses?

Hello Christine! As I was not the one driving, I can’t speak to the difficulty of driving on the left side. However, my father-in-law said he got used to it very quickly, though he paid special attention at roundabouts and turns. As for a shorter itinerary using public transit, you can see all of the places in this post by train. I’d suggest Windsor, Stonehenge, Bath, Gloucester, and the Cotswolds if you’re going that route. You could also take the overnight train to Edinburgh, spend a few days there, and then take a train to the Lake District.

We are planning on following your itinerary for a September trip. Any recommendations for rental car places near Windsor?

That’s great to hear, Brenda! I don’t have a personal recommendation, as my father-in-law rented our car in London from a small shop. However, I’ve always had good experiences with Enterprise when renting in the US. There’s an Enterprise rental agency in Slough, which is a bit north of Windsor.

This is exactly what I have been looking for! Thank you so much for sharing all of this information. I am beginning the planning now!!!! Melanie

Happy to help, Melanie!

Thanks a lot for such an informative post. Actually, in October, I along with my wife are planning for a tour to London. Your guide will help us.

Happy to help, Mike!

Chelsea, we are coming to the UK in September and have nearly 3 weeks to explore before attending a conference in London in mid October. We were wondering if we could start in Scotland and use this itinerary to travel back to London over a 18 day period?

Your thoughts would be appreciated.

Kind regards, Maureen (Melbourne)

That sounds like a great trip, Maureen! This itinerary is only 9 days long, so you could either spend more time in each destination, or add a few extra places. Personally, I’d explore more of Scotland, the Lake District, and the Cotswolds, but that’s just me 🙂

I m planning trip which is cheaper by train or self drive car??

Hi Mayur! It’s almost certainly cheaper to do this UK road trip by car, unless you’re traveling by yourself. Train ticket fares keep going up, and you’d need to hire taxis to reach some of these places from the closest station.

Hi Chelsea This is a great itinerary . My problem is , my husband want to see Old Trafford in manchester and he is a HUGE ManU fan. We have 5.5 days in UK . Is there any way we can do Stonehenge ( as i really want to see it) and manchester also in these 5 days? What is the best way to go about these places? Renting a car or doing by train/bus?

P.S. We have two kids with us 3 and 6 yo. Coming in first week of Sept

Hi Wafa! If you only have 5.5 days in the UK and really want to see Manchester, I would probably do a totally diferent itinerary from this one!

If you’re starting in London, you can take a round trip bus tour to Stonehenge. Then, you can take a train to Manchester and spend a day there. Manchester is right next to the beautiful Peak District, so you could travel by train/bus or rent a car to see a few places there (Chatsworth House and the trails around Edale are nice). Finally, you can take a train back down to London assuming that’s where you’re departing from.

I hope this helps!

Hi, Chelsea,

It is very exciting to read thru your pre-planned on self driving from London to Scotland. We are following exact itinerary given by you. I Would appreciate that you can share on buying the tickets to Windsor Castle. Where to buy online with good bargains for 5 adults. And any other tickets to buy online or during the visit?

Thanks Daron! Unfortunately I don’t believe there aren’t any discounts on tickets for Windsor Castle (unless you’re over 60 or disabled), as it’s regulated by the Royal Collection Trust. However, getting your tickets online in advance is a good idea, because the ticket queue can get quite long and you’ll save time.

In addition to Windsor Castle, it’s best to get advance online tickets for the Tower of London , Stonehenge , and Shakespeare’s family homes .

Best wishes on your UK road trip!

Thanks Chelsea for sharing such a nice post. I am planning for a self drive ride while on a tour to London with my wife next month. Going to bookmark your site.. Thanks for helping…

Hi Is it possible to follow this itenerary by using public transportation such as train or bus?

Hello, Edy! Yes, you could use a combo of trains and buses to follow almost all of this itinerary. I’d start by using Google Maps to see what routes and train services are available, and then check the websites for specific providers (ex. Great Western Railway) to get an idea of cost.

Him read through your itinerary and was so impressed with it. Is it possible to do it at the end of October? Will the weather be wet if so than will it hinder this itinerary. Hope you can give me some guidance. Thank you.

Thanks, Violet! There’s no escaping the rain in the UK, unfortunately, so traveling in October is fine. You’ll also have the benefit of seeing beautiful autumn foliage!

You convinced me !! I only have 6 days to do them all , which places do you think i could miss ? im traveling with my husband ( he is not very fond on museums etc but love sightseen and enjoy the culture of the countries we visit) and my 10 yr old son .

Glad I could convince you, Fabiola! With six days and a 10-year-old in tow, I would probably do this: Day 1-2: London Day 3: Windsor Castle, Stonehenge Day 4: Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon Day 5: Lake District Day 6: Edinburgh

I hope you enjoy your UK road trip!

Great article! My husband, granddaughter (7) and I land at LHR on a Friday morning and leave from LHR eleven days later. My husband and I did a 30 day camping trip back in 1984 when stationed in Germany (US Army) and had a great time. This time we have a rental car and our granddaughter wants to see castles! We want to only spend about 1 or 1-1/2 days in London at either end of the trip. We want to go to Bath, Windsor, York, Stratford and a couple castles in Wales. Probably skip Edinburgh due to time constraints. Any advice on a route and other castles/sites along the way? We are not interested in Stonehenge and want to NOT be in Bath the last weekend in May due to the festival then. We did enjou our time in Cornwall back in 1984 and we also want to see one or two spectacular Cathedral/Abbeys. Any advise?

Sounds like the makings of a great trip, Lisa! I can’t advise on an ideal driving route, but based on where you’re traveling I would recommend stopping by Blenheim Palace, Gloucester Cathedral, Bolsover Castle, and Chatsworth House.

Great itinerary. How much should I budget for parking? Any hacks to reduce this cost item?

Great question! I wish I could remember exactly what we paid for parking, but unfortunately I’m not sure… However, I’d say most lots were around £2 per hour, with some lots doing flat rates for half vs. full day parking (ex. Aira Force is £7 for 4 hours or $9 for the whole day). Several places like the Cotswolds villages and Latrigg Fell had free parking, and you can find free or cheap street parking in Edinburgh as well. Stonehenge parking was included in the ticket price.

Thank you, Chelsea, for this invaluable itinerary! Our 6 week trip was postponed until next July. My husband will be relieving a pastor in Scotland. We plan to fly in to London, explore for 2-3 days and then begin our drive to Scotland. We will live in Lairg and Mike will serve two churches on the northwest coast in Kinlochbervie and Durness. We will use your guide and also be able to explore the Scottish Highlands. Thank you!

Thanks so much, Carol! It sounds like you’ve got an exciting trip planned. Hopefully everything goes well with your travel plans for next summer. Enjoy the Highlands 🙂

Thank you for this informative itinerary and advice. While I have visited the areas of London [several trips],Bath, Lake District and York, you have inspired me to do this trip even if there are repeat visits to certain places for me. Now we are praying for a COVID-19 free 2021 so that we can embark on our travels again.

Thank you, Etynne! It’s a fantastic road trip through the UK, even if you end up repeating a few locations. I hope you can get back on the road soon.

Hi Chelsea – thank you !! came across this great itinerary as I kick off planning for our 2 month UK self drive holiday for May2023. My wife and I have lived in UK for 4-5 years in mid’2000 but at that time work and children commitment did not allow us to travel extensively.

Therefore this trip – where we are planning to travel from India and just experience UK (and Ireland) as a local for 2 months. Pls share any insights, longer duration itineraries, typical budget.

Hello Sanjay, sounds like an amazing trip around the country! One of my favorite travel books is Lonely Planet’s Great Britain’s Best Trips . It has a bunch of fun road trip itineraries of various lengths as well as tips for hiring/driving a rental car.

Dear Chelsea, thank you for the great blog! I will be travelling to UK in May and love the idea to drive around. Would you be able to share if there will be parking fee at most places in your blog? For example, places of interest, hotels, inns, etc. (I live in Singapore and there is no free parking at all, everywhere charges a fee) I’m worried parking cost will be eating into my budget travelling in UK. Thank you!!

Hi Celine, you’ll find a mix of paid and free parking if you follow this itinerary. However, most of the paid lots only cost around £5. We definitely paid to park at Windsor, Bath, and Aira Force, but places in the countryside like the Painswick Beacon or any kind of inn/pub had free parking.

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A Lady in London

And Traveling the World

Lady’s 13 Day Trips from Edinburgh

Today I want to share 13 day trips from Edinburgh with you. If you’re looking to escape the Scottish capital for a fun day out, these are just the places. From fairy-tale castles to seaside towns and fishing villages, there are a lot of great days out near Edinburgh for you to choose from.

Day Trips from Edinburgh

Edinburgh is one of my favorite cities. Between the beautiful streets, hilltop castle, and secret villages, I could spend a lifetime exploring.

But there are lots of nearby places that are worth a visit, too. If I can tear myself away, I like getting out into the towns and countryside around the Scottish capital.

I’ve traveled to all these destinations over the years, and each one has something special to offer. From stunning castles to seaside charm, there’s a day trip to fit every mood.

1. North Berwick Day Trip

One of my favorite day trips from Edinburgh is North Berwick . This colorful town sits on the Firth of Forth and is an easy train ride from the Scottish capital.

With sandy beaches, pastel houses, and sweeping views of the Bass Rock in the distance, it’s easy to fall in love with this place.

2. Dunbar Day Trip

Just down the coast from North Berwick, Dunbar is an under-the-radar coastal gem and a great day trip from Edinburgh.

It’s also the birthplace of John Muir, who played a major role in the establishment of America’s national parks.

It’s easy to see where his love of nature came from, as the seaside landscapes and walking paths are both dramatic and inspiring. And that’s to say nothing of the colorful homes and castle around the harbor.

3. St Andrews Day Trip

Just north of Edinburgh, St Andrews is one of the most famous places to visit in Scotland. While many know it for golf, there’s a lot more to do than play 18 holes.

The ruins of St Andrews Cathedral and nearby castle are beautiful, as is the university. The town itself has great shops and cafes, and there’s even a beach for when the sun comes out.

4. Kellie Castle and Falkland Day Trip

Near St Andrews lie Kellie Castle and Falkland, which can be combined into a day trip from Edinburgh.

Kellie Castle is everything I’ve ever wanted from a Scottish fortress, with the added bonus of Arts & Crafts Movement interiors by Sir Robert Lorimer and a spectacular walled garden.

Nearby Falkland is another of Fife’s highlights. This village has everything from turrets to palaces, and has been used as a filming location for Outlander .

Steeped in history, the streets are lovely to walk down and Falkland Palace is worth touring for its expansive grounds and historic interiors.

5. Dundee Day Trip

Dundee often gets overlooked, but this city is a good one for day trips from Edinburgh to visit the V&A Dundee museum. Housed in a contemporary building on the waterfront, it showcases the best of Scottish design.

Nearby, I love seeing the Dundee-built RRS Discovery, the ship responsible for conveying Robert Falcon Scott and Ernest Shackleton on their first expedition to Antarctica.

6. Stirling Day Trip

One of my earliest memories of Scotland is a day trip from Edinburgh to Stirling Castle when I was five. I fell in love with the fortress back then, and have discovered a lot more to do around the area since.

One highlight is The National Wallace Monument, which pays tribute to 13th-century Scottish hero William Wallace (of Braveheart fame).

If there’s time after visiting Stirling, I like stopping to see The Kelpies in Falkirk. These eye-catching artworks are the largest equine sculptures in the world.

7. Glasgow Day Trip

My Glaswegian grandmother once told me that the best thing about Edinburgh is the train to Glasgow . She might have been a wee bit biased, but she wasn’t wrong in believing Glasgow has a lot going for it.

Given how close it is to the capital, it’s easy to hop on a train for a day trip from Edinburgh (and even easier to be tempted to stay longer).

With amazing architecture, loads of hip shops and restaurants, world-class museums, and a beautiful university, there’s a lot to see and do in Glasgow.

8. Berwick-upon-Tweed Day Trip

In the other direction, England’s Berwick-upon-Tweed is only a 45-minute train ride from the Scottish capital and is perfect for day trips from Edinburgh.

Another underrated seaside town, Berwick is home to stunning bridges, fortified walls, and charming streets.

I spent a lot of time here when I made frequent trips to the the Scottish Borders , and I found something new to love about the town on every visit.

9. Rosslyn Chapel Day Trip

Da Vinci Code fans will remember Rosslyn Chapel from Dan Brown’s best-selling novel. But the chapel isn’t just part of a fictional narrative; it’s a landmark in its own right.

The symbolism in the carvings and artwork rivals the mysteries Brown came up with in his story, and the exterior of the building is as attractive as the interior is intriguing. It’s a great day trip from Edinburgh for history lovers.

10. Abbotsford House Day Trip

A direct train line from Edinburgh to Tweedbank means the Scottish Borders are easy to visit on day trips from Edinburgh. My favorite place in the area is Abbotsford House. It’s one of the best under-the-radar places to travel in Scotland .

The home of Scottish writer Sir Walter Scott, the house and its adjacent gardens are straight out of a fairy tale. Just wait ’till you see the library.

11. Melrose Abbey Day Trip

Not far from Abbotsford House, Melrose Abbey is another of the best places to visit in the Scottish Borders (and can be combined with Abbotsford on a day trip from Edinburgh).

The ruins of this Cistercian monastery are hauntingly beautiful, and it’s rumored that the heart of Robert the Bruce, one of the most famous Scottish kings, is buried here.

The pretty town of Melrose is worth visiting in its own right, too. There are lots of shops, restaurants, and cafes on the high street.

12. Culross Day Trip

On the Firth of Forth in Fife, Culross is one of the closest and easiest day trips from Edinburgh. This historic seaside village is full of charm.

With bright yellow facades, cobblestone streets, and abbey ruins, Culross is said to be Scotland’s most complete example of a burgh of the 17th and 18th centuries.

The village is also known for being an Outlander filming location. Culross played the part of the fictional village of Cranesmuir near Castle Leoch in the TV show.

13. Pittenweem Day Trip

Also on the Firth of Forth, Pittenweem is a fishing village in the East Neuk of Fife. It’s home to a scenic harbor, pastel houses, and beautiful coastline. They make this place one of the best day trips from Edinburgh.

From the cafes on the high street to the charming lanes leading down the hill to the waterfront, there’s a lot to discover here.

The harbor is full of colorful boats, and the Fife Coastal Path is a great place for a walk along the water. There are lots of pastel houses to admire, too.

I hope these day trips from Edinburgh have given you inspiration for your time in Scotland. They’ve certainly inspired me, and I can’t wait to explore more of the areas around the city. If I can persuade myself to leave, that is.

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6 Comments on Lady’s 13 Day Trips from Edinburgh

I love all these suggestions, and there are so many I still haven’t made it to! I’m planning to move to Edinburgh by the end of this year so I’ll be sure to check… hmm, all of these out!! 🙂

That’s great! I’m glad you like them, and I hope you have fun doing them.

I’m in Edinburgh Aug 31 for 2 days and plan to visit the Kelpies and St. Andrew’s on my way North. Will be using your ideas and info. Thanks! Then off to Cairngorms and beyond. Sadly won’t be in London this time…Hope you’re feeling better.

That’s great! I hope you have a good trip.

I certainly will use your site on planning our next trip to Edinburgh Scotland Thank you for your suggestions

You’re welcome!

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5 incredible day trips from Edinburgh that should be on your bucket list

• Brijiena Lovelace
• Published : 17:26, 30 Apr 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

WITH summer so close we can almost feel it, anyone hoping to get a much-needed trip away should look no further GetYourGuide.

GetYourGuide boasts over 140,000 exciting experiences in 150 countries, but if the Scottish Highlands is on your bucket list, we've curated a list of some of the top Edinburgh experiences to book now.

Save on Edinburgh experiences GetYourGuide

Planning your next trip away is super simple with GetYourGuide , access hundreds of discounted trips and tours from anywhere in the world with the user-friendly app.

Whether you're seeking a solo adventure, a romantic evening away , or the perfect family trip in Edinburgh - there are plenty of options to suit all preferences.

Sun readers can unlock a wide range of discounts on fun experiences from Edinburgh, including visiting Loch Ness and taking a gin tour at 56 North Distillery.

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You can find a full list of fun days out at GetYourGuide , but we've done some of the hard work for you.

5 incredible day trips from Edinburgh

1. dark history royal mile walking tour.

Dark History Royal Mile Walking Tour

For those who love a little bit of spooky history, this walking tour will allow you to immerse yourself in the dark, hidden history of Edinburgh.

Known as "The Jekyll & Hyde City," you can explore all of the astonishing architecture and history Edinburgh has to offer while taking in landmarks like the Traverse Old Town and the Canongate.

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From tales of murderers, thieves, cannibals, hangings, witches, the Plague and more, this is a one-stop tour to learn about Edinburgh's most infamous citizens and the origins of its most iconic ghost stories.

Just what I expected from a “dark history” tour. Super informative, entertaining and interesting. GetYourGuide customer

The tour has rave reviews with one happy customer saying: "I loved the tour. The guide was an excellent storyteller - witty, knowledgable and well-organised.

Adding, "Just what I expected from a “dark history” tour. Super informative, entertaining and interesting.

"I would definitely recommend this if you’re in Edinburgh."

2. Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands Tour

Loch Ness, Glencoe & the Scottish Highlands Tour

This journey allows you to explore the Scottish Highlands from Edinburgh.

On the bus tour, you can sit back and relax as your guide shares entertaining commentary throughout the trip, with plenty of opportunities to get some pictures along the way.

You might even be lucky enough to encounter the famous Highland cows (depending on the time of year) and there's even a ‘wee’ kilt introduction if you're interested in Highland culture.

Next, you'll venture to Loch Ness to try and catch a glimpse of the iconic monster, or relax on the pier with a coffee while taking in the stunning views.

It’s a day filled with adventure, history, and amazing views - perfect for the whole family.

One five-star reviewer said: "We really had a great day. We drove through half of Scotland in a brand new coach, with beautiful views.

"There are several stops along the way to go to the toilet or eat, and to take photos.

"We also visited the remains of the castle on Loch Ness and took the boat trip."

3. 'Firth of Forth' Three Bridges Sightseeing Cruise

'Firth of Forth' Three Bridges Sightseeing Cruise

If a trip on the water sounds more like your kind of day out, this sightseeing cruise is perfect.

While cruising along visitors can take in panoramic views of the Edinburgh skyline and the historic Inchcolm Island, before admiring the impressive UNESCO World Heritage Forth Bridge (with plenty of time to get the perfect Instagram snap).

The tour also stops at Inchcolm Island where you get to do some exploring and there is also a guided commentary about the iconic Three Bridges, including the Forth Road suspension bridge and Queensferry Crossing, the longest three-tower cable-stayed bridge in the world.

Not only will you get to take in the wonders of engineering but if you're lucky you may also catch sightings of marine wildlife such as seals, puffins, and seabirds along the way.

My grandson was particularly happy that he saw trains on the Forth Bridge and seals near Inchcolm Island GetYourGuide customer

One happy customer's five-star review said: "Myself and my partner took our grandson on what he would call an adventure.

"We live quite near the attraction and I was particularly surprised by some of the history that was brought to our attention by the onboard crew and the automated narration.

"My grandson was particularly happy that he saw trains on the Forth Bridge and seals near Inchcolm Island."

4. Guided Gin Tasting at 56 North Distillery

Guided Gin Tasting at 56 North Distillery

If you enjoy gin but are even more interested in the gin-making process, this trip to Edinburgh's 56 North Distillery is a good place to start.

56 North Distillery is where award-winning gins are crafted, and visitors will get to step inside Scotland's oldest dedicated gin bar which has a stunning array of over 300 gins lining its shelves.

While you learn about botanicals, production techniques and the art of gin-making, you will of course get to indulge in a few of the tipples too including three unique gins crafted at the South Loch Gin distillery.

To cap off your visit enjoy a bespoke South Loch Gin cocktail.

The tasting and what to mix the gin with was very informative. GetYourGuide customer

The popular tour has received many five-star reviews, with one fan sharing: "Learning about Gin and the process of making it was great.

"James was very interesting to listen to and had great knowledge about his craft.

"The tasting and what to mix the gin with was very informative. The blood orange gin went very well with the food we ordered at the bar afterwards."

Underground Vaults Tour

Delve into the dark history of Edinburgh on this tour which takes you beneath the streets of Old Town to the eerie vaults of South Bridge that date back to as far as the 1700s.

Most Haunted Live fans will love that the show was filmed in some of these locations - naming it as one of the scariest places on Earth.

You'll learn about the vaults' varied uses over the years, including the harsh living conditions of citizens and the spirits said to still roam the underground chambers.

If you love spooky stories, your guide will share tales of the Burke and Hare murders, witch persecutions and many other chilling stories from Edinburgh's past.

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Would HIGHLY recommend this tour to anyone wanting to see parts of Edinburgh that not many people get to see GetYourGuide customer

One fan, who gave the tour five stars, raved: "The tour was fascinating and fun Louisa was an excellent guide, very knowledgeable and fun.

"Would HIGHLY recommend this tour to anyone wanting to see parts of Edinburgh that not many people get to see."

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Duchess Sophie visits Ukraine in first trip by British royal since start of war

L ONDON (Reuters) - Sophie, Britain's Duchess of Edinburgh, has visited Ukraine, meeting with President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and his wife in the first trip to the country by a British royal since the conflict with Russia began, Buckingham Palace said on Monday.

Sophie, 59, the wife of King Charles' youngest brother Prince Edward, made the surprise visit on behalf of Britain's Foreign Office to show solidarity with those impacted by the war and as part of her work to champion survivors of conflict-related sexual violence, the palace said in a statement.

"It's true that women and girls pay the highest price in terms of human cost when it comes to the way that they are affected, the way that they can be used as weapons of war," she said in a speech during the visit.

"Rape is used to demean, to degrade and to destroy, and we have to get better at trying to prevent that from happening," she added.

The foreign office said Sophie paid her respects to those who lost their lives in Bucha, a town near Kyiv where Russian forces are accused of committing war crimes including executions and rapes before it was recaptured two years ago.

She met with survivors of conflict-related sexual violence and survivors of torture, the ministry said, and children who had been returned to Ukraine after being separated from their families and taken to Russia.

She also met female volunteers who have helped their communities cope with the aftermath of attacks with mental healthcare activities for children.

Britain has been one of the most vocal and active backers of Ukraine since Russia invaded, and has pledged more than 4.7 billion pounds ($5.91 billion) in non-military support.

Sophie's trip to Ukraine follows previous visits she has made to countries including Kosovo, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Colombia to hear first-hand testimonies from victims of conflict-related sexual violence.

"I've met so many wonderful Ukrainians ... in the United Kingdom, who have found a home over there," she said, before adding, "their hearts remain here."

"They would like to return home one day, and hopefully that will happen," she said.

($1 = 0.7958 pounds)

(Reporting by Michael Holden, additional reporting by Muvija M; Editing by Bill Berkrot)

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I have problem with motion sickness and my daughter may not enjoy 12 hours roadtrip.

Considering these two constraints, please advice on a good tour option.

9 replies to this topic

Consider some of the much shorter tours operated by the likes of Rabbies, Timberbush, HairyCoo, Discoverscotland etc.

Try something with less traveling like this which will still give you a taste of scenery that's better than Loch Ness.

https://www.rabbies.com/en/scotland-tours/from-edinburgh/day-tours/west-highland-lochs-castles-day-tour

https://www.rabbies.com/en/scotland-tours/from-edinburgh/day-tours/loch-lomond-national-park-stirling-castle-day-tour

Alternatively, have a day at the beach, get the quick train journey to North Berwick, visit the sea bird center, walk along the beach and have an ice cream at https://alandas.co.uk/gelato-north-berwick/

I have problem with motion sickness and my daughter may not enjoy 12 hours road trip. then totally forget a one day trip to Loch Ness, no one would enjoy it . There are so many nicer and nearer places.

Go to Pitlochry on the train for the day.

Please forget the Loch Ness trip. 12 hours on a coach, with very little time to stop and look around. Loch Lomond trip would be good and it has as many monsters as Loch Ness does.

Despite the name, Loch Ness tours are not the only way to see the Highlands and Loch Ness itself is amongst our poorest/most over promoted "attractions". Any of the west Highland Lochs and Glens/Castles - type tours offer better for less time on a bus, with more/longer stops and the Loch Lomond, Trossachs/Highland Perthshire tours offer a lot with even less travel time.

Consider a train journey instead of a coach trip which may be easier for all of you . Such as the idea in #2

Maybe the Kelpies, Loch Lomond and Stirling tour with more stops?

But yes if that won’t be enjoyable for all a short day trip instead by train.

haha.. thank you!

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Prince Edward honours Anzac Day: the Duke of Edinburgh leads the royal family during a poignant service in London

By Harriet Johnston

Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh attends the ANZAC Day Dawn Service at the New Zealand Memorial on April 25, 2024 in London

The Duke of Edinburgh led the royal family in honouring Anzac Day on 25 April, as he continues stepping up to support his brother, the King.

The event marks the anniversary of the start of the First World War Gallipoli landings, and is a national day of remembrance for Australia and New Zealand. The royal father-of-two joined the dawn service at the New Zealand Memorial in London in the early hours, donning a smart black coat as he wrapped up against the cool weather.

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Later, he will attend the Service of Commemoration and Thanksgiving at Westminster Abbey. The Duke of Edinburgh will also attend the Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Cenotaph and lay a wreath on behalf of His Majesty The King.

Prince Edward

By Isaac Bickerstaff

His final engagement of the day will see him attending the annual Gallipoli Association Wreath- Laying Ceremony, in the Crypt at St Paul’s Cathedral as he takes on the patronage of the Association, previously held by his father, Prince Philip.

It marks the first time Prince Edward has attended any of the memorials to honour the day, as the events have previously been honoured by other senior royals, including the late Queen, the King and the Prince of Wales. However, it's just the latest example of the Duke stepping up to support the royal family amidst the challenges of the past few months.

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He was very recently awarded the Order of the Thistle by the King as he marked his 60th birthday, while he was also given the title of Colonel of the Scots Guard earlier this month. Sources have now revealed what Prince Edward is really like behind-the-scenes, with royal expert Jennie Bond writing in MailOnline , ‘He is said to find the whole business of being royal very constraining at times but has learnt to live alongside it, unworried that everything is done for him.’

The Duke of Edinburgh during the dawn service at the New Zealand Memorial

Calling the father-of-two ‘kind and self-deprecating’, she explained how ‘marriage and fatherhood have matured him’, adding that Edward ‘credits much of this to his wife Sophie.’ Meanwhile she also writes how the Duke is ‘closest to his sister, the Princess Royal ’ of his immediate family, with the two sharing many similarities.

Major General Sir Michael Hobbs a former Director of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award told MailOnline , ‘There is a degree of softness there which makes him a thoroughly decent chap.’

Prince Edward and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, are among the King's closest confidantes - so will their children ever become working royals?

Edward and his wife Sophie are widely viewed as a competent, confident couple, who have consistently demonstrated their integrity and public articulacy. In recent weeks, the Duke has stepped into the spotlight amidst the King and Kate Middleton ’s cancer battles. It is currently unknown when Charles or the Princess of Wales will return to public -facing engagements, after both were diagnosed with cancer earlier this year - but the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh have consistently demonstrated their integrity and public articulacy over the last few years.

Last month, according to The Telegraph it seems Prince Edward could be set to become the royal's leading man. Insiders have praised the royal father-of-two for his ‘inner steel’, with a former Balmoral gamekeeper telling The Telegraph Edward is a ‘really tough bloke’. Sandy Masson, the former head stalker on the royal estate at Balmoral, said, ‘Edward was easily the toughest of all the princes. Nothing was too much for him.’

By Isaac Zamet

Train strikes in May 2024: Full list of dates and lines affected

Rail lines are set for disruption in the week following the first May bank holiday as train drivers at 16 rail companies strike on different days.

Wednesday 1 May 2024 09:08, UK

Train drivers will stage a fresh wave of strikes and overtime bans in May, causing disruption to the rail network.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay.

Members of Aslef union at 16 rail companies will walk out on different days from 7 to 9 May.

Additionally, all members will refuse to work any overtime from 6 May to 11 May.

Here is a full list of the services affected by strikes and when.

Rail strike dates

Tuesday 7 May

Strikes will affect c2c, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express and South Western Railway.

Wednesday 8 May

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Trains.

Thursday 9 May

Strikes will affect LNER, Northern Trains and TransPennine Express.

Overtime ban dates

From Monday 6 May to Saturday 11 May union members will not work overtime.

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, means some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

How do strikes and overtime bans affect services?

Strikes tend to mean services on lines where members are participating are extremely affected or cancelled entirely, whereas overtime bans often lead to reduced services.

Are there strikes on the Tube too?

There have been regular strikes on London Underground too recently, and while there aren't any planned walkouts for drivers, customer service managers will refuse to work overtime on the following days:

Monday 29 April

Tuesday 30 April

Wednesday 1 May

Tuesday 2 May

Wednesday 3 May

Thursday 4 May

Friday 5 May

The Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) says the action by its members is likely to cause Tube stations to close at the last minute, including on the Saturday following the strike (27 April), while TfL has said on its website "some stations may need to close at short notice".

Despite the warning, a TfL spokesperson has said they aren't expecting significant disruption.

This action follows strike action taken by the same workers on 10 April, which the TSSA said had a "real impact" with "many stations shut at short notice".

They say they are "extremely concerned" about TfL's 'Stations Changes' proposals.

"We have made it clear that our union will not accept the continued threats to our members' roles, locations, terms, and conditions to stand unchallenged," a TSSA spokesperson said.

"We will continue to take sustained action until London Underground is prepared to negotiate with us in good faith."

Commenting on the impending strikes, a TfL spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that TSSA is continuing with this strike action following a consultation process.

"While we don't expect this action will cause significant disruption, we urge TSSA to continue to work with us to help find a resolution.

"There are no planned job losses as part of these vital changes which will improve the service we provide to customers at our stations."

How can I stay in the loop?

You can use the National Rail's journey planner to see when trains are running.

Be sure to check it close to when you plan to travel, as it will be updated regularly.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Why are the strikes still happening?

Aslef rejected a two-year offer of 4% in 2022 and another 4% this year, saying it is way below inflation, and is linked to changes in terms and conditions.

Aslef said train drivers have not had an increase in salary for five years, since their last pay deals expired in 2019.

The union said after its members voted overwhelmingly in February to continue taking industrial action, it asked the train operating companies to hold talks.

General secretary Mick Whelan said the year-old pay offer of 4% and another 4% was "dead in the water".

Related Topics

• London Underground
• Rail strikes