Planning a trip to the United Kingdom is exciting, but where do you begin? The first big decision awaits: will you immerse yourself in the charms of England, or does Wales and Scotland get your attention? It’s the first exciting choice on your path to an unforgettable UK adventure!
Our comprehensive travel guide has got you covered, providing everything you need to know for your upcoming 10 days itinerary. Whether you choose to navigate with a rental car or without, this jam-packed sightseeing adventure is designed to make your UK experience unforgettable.
What’s the best way to travel around the United Kingdom?
Trains and Buses
If you are planning to do a 10-day trip to the United Kingdom you can travel on trains or buses, however, they are quite expensive and you need to follow the timetables, mainly to major cities. So we don’t think is worth it if you are in such tight schedule.
Rental Car
We still believe this option is 100% cheaper than the one before, and the best thing about having a rental car is the freedom of stopping anywhere you want and the flexibility to go anytime to your next destination.
We recommend checking Airport Rentals for finding the best deals on compact car rentals. Also, you might be able to get some miles in your frequent flyer program. We always choose to pay for the full car insurance to avoid any headaches when returning the car.
United Kingdom 10 days travel itinerary
Travel Map
London
London is the largest city and the best point of entry to the United Kingdom, we flew from Gothenburg in Sweden to Heathrow, a very short and comfortable flight.
While in London we stayed with Cristian’s childhood friend Luis in Brixton, a neighbourhood that back in the day you couldn’t walk around unless you knew someone, but nowadays it’s a very lively and cultural place to go.
We went to Elephant and Castle, Luis told us that’s where the majority of Latin people hang out, so we didn’t miss the chance to go for a salsa dance. We went to see the London Bridge as well. There are many, many more attractions in London, but that wasn’t the main reason why we went to London for a few days, the main reason was a music festival called We Are Fstvl.
Now let’s start this road trip, shall we…
Day 1-2: Chester
Chester is one of England’s most beautiful historic cities, located in the North West of England in the county of Cheshire, 4 hour’s drive from London. Chester is famous for its unique black and white buildings, stunning medieval buildings that are two stories above the street! They make Chester look like a magical place where history and today mix together.
We started the day by heading back in time to ancient Chester, we went to have a walk around Chester’s city walls, which are around 3.3 km long. When we were here it was raining (like most days in England), so we didn’t have the chance to walk around a lot.
After having some lunch, we went and check out Chester Cathedral located in the heart of the city. The legend says here has been a Christian church on this spot since the Roman times! The building you see today started its journey in 1092 as a Benedictine monastery.
Chester Cathedral isn’t just a stunning building; it’s the heart of community life in the city. Throughout the year, it hosts special services and events, bridging the gap between the city’s rich heritage and the vibrant life of today’s community.
Just before finishing the day we went and caught the sunset at the Eastgate Clock, this monument is more than a clock, it is a symbol of history and architecture for the city, there are some stairs that you can climb your way to the top and see the main street from above (free).
Day 2-3: Penrith & Glasgow
Penrith
The next morning we started driving our way up to Glasgow, 4 hours north of Chester, but before arriving in Glasgow we decided to stop in a town called Penrith – a stunning historical place with attractive medieval ruins and ancient looking houses. Halfway to Glasgow, Penrith is definitely worth to stop and stretch our legs, have a stroll around town and visit the ruins of a medieval castle.
Glasgow
After stretching the legs and having a coffee in Penrith it is time to continue further north to Glasgow. The best thing about traveling during summer in Europe is that the sun doesn’t set until around 9 pm and sometimes even later!
The most scenic drive was passing the border between England and Scotland, it’s not an actual border, but you can feel the difference as soon as you pass that invisible line, the grey clouds are left behind to receive the blue skies of the neighbouring country.
We finally arrived in Glasgow, dropped the car at our hotel and took the metro to the city centre. We walked around Buchanan Street, that’s where all the shops, restaurants, and cafes are, and at the end of the street is George Square, a great place to sit and relax.
After that we went to Celtic Park. If you are not familiar, Celtic F.C. is one of the football teams with most football titles in the United Kingdom. The stadium is big with a capacity of 60,832 people, and we booked a tour to know more about the history of this club. This football club in Glasgow has a huge fan base not only in Scotland but around the entire world. Celtic is one of the only 5 football clubs with more than 100 trophies.
We took a tour through Get Your Guide which cost 21.60 USD. This guided tour takes one hour and someone very knowledgeable will take you around the trophy room, lockers, media room, and even the benches inside the ground.
Book your tickets here:
Day 3-5: Stirling & Edinburgh
Stirling
Just 42km north of Glasgow you will find the beautiful town of Stirling. This town is like it was taken out from a fairy tale book, all the houses and buildings look like little castles all around the town. It was the favoured residence of Scotland’s kings and queens.
It is definitely, a place that you want to visit if you come to Scotland, at least to just stop to get some lunch, have a walk around the castle, and then continue your way to the north or Edinburgh as we did.
Edinburgh
Edinburgh holds a special place in our hearts as one of our preferred cities on the entire planet. The cobblestone streets along the historic Royal Mile, the availability of free museums, the cool locals who will share a beer, and the extensive selection of top-notch whiskies to discover the city’s charm.
Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city, is also a World Unesco Heritage site and as you know we love to visit all these sites around the world. Edinburgh has so many myths and stories about ghosts under the city grounds, it never gets boring to walk around this city.
Places to visit in Edinburgh
Arthur’s Seat
Arthur’s Seat, just outside Edinburgh, is an old, inactive volcano that’s now a cool hiking spot. It’s 251 meters tall, so not a hard trail, and is also well maintained, and the hike takes about an hour each way. Once you’re at the top, you get this awesome view of the whole city. If the weather is good, as it was for us (we spent all the 2 nights with sunny blue sky), grab some snacks and relax having the best view in the city, when you get to the top you will feel rewarded.
Edinburgh Castle
Edinburgh Castle, built in the 12th century, sits atop a hill overlooking the city’s Old Town. It has experienced numerous conflicts and is historically significant. You can easily spend hours here exploring and delving into the castle’s rich history.
The Royal Mile
Edinburgh’s Royal Mile is like a magical time machine, taking you on a journey through the past right in the heart of the city. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a shopaholic, or just someone looking for a good time, this famous street has something for everyone.
Imagine walking on the streets made of cobblestones that have seen centuries of stories unfold. The Royal Mile is exactly that – a mile-long adventure filled with old buildings, charming shops, and lots of tales to tell.
You’ll find shops with kilts, tartans, and Scottish souvenirs that are cooler than a chilly breeze. It’s like stepping into a Harry Potter movie – maybe you’ll even find a wand or two!
Speaking of snacks, the Royal Mile has plenty of places to fill your tummy. Whether you fancy a traditional Scottish meal or just want some yummy ice cream, there’s a treat for every taste bud. Our favourite snack was from a place called Oink – a box of pulled pork with served with Haggis and apple sauce. Yum!
Keep an eye out for street performers – they bring the Royal Mile to life with music, magic, and laughter. It’s like having your very own live entertainment show as you explore.
So, there you have it – the Royal Mile in Edinburgh is a fantastic place where history, shopping, friendly faces, tasty treats, and a bit of magic all come together. It’s a must-visit for everyone.
Scott Monument and the statue of Greyfriars Bobby
Constructed in 1846, the Scott Monument stands tall as a tribute to the remarkable life of Sir Walter Scott, the brilliant mind behind iconic novels like Ivanhoe. This Gothic monument was designed to celebrate not only his literary masterpieces but also his significant contributions to Scottish culture and the city of Edinburgh. The Scott Monument serves as a timeless reminder of the enduring impact of one man’s creativity on both literature and the cultural fabric of Scotland’s capital.
Greyfriars Bobby was a Skye Terrier who reportedly spent 14 years guarding the grave of his owner, John Gray, in Greyfriars Kirkyard. The statue is located near the Greyfriars Bobby’s Bar, not far from the Royal Mile in Edinburgh. The locals say that if you rub the nose you will get good luck.
Looking for a reliable travel insurance?
We recommend using Genki. They are very practical, affordable, reliable, and best of all no commitment, you can pay monthly and cancel it anytime. It is also very easy to process claims with them, we had use it during our trip and we got our claim approved and fully refunded within weeks. It starts from €35 per month.
Day 5-6: Bamburgh, Whitley Bay & Newcastle
Bamburgh
With half of the days left it was time to start moving south again, so we decided to drive 2.5 hours to the beautiful town of Whitley Bay, but before arriving at this stunning coastal town, we want to highlight the Bamburgh Castle, which is halfway between Edinburgh and Whitley Bay.
Sits atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the North Sea and is known for its stunning coastal views. The castle has a rich history dating back to the 6th century and has played a significant role in various periods, including Anglo-Saxon, Norman, and medieval times. Today, Bamburgh Castle is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into its historical past and breathtaking surroundings.
Bamburgh Castle is one of the most filmed fortresses having starred in Downtown Abbey, the first two Harry Potter films, and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves.
Whitley Bay
Let’s talk about Whitley Bay beach – it’s basically the hidden gem of coastal spots! Picture this: a two-mile stretch of sandy goodness, where you can take a chill walk and soak in the awesomeness of St Mary’s lighthouse. There are cozy spots to sit, a chill promenade with some green grass for a laid-back picnic vibe. Any season, it’s a vibe, but grab your wind cheater because, you know, the Northern coast can throw some chilly surprises. So, pack your snacks and get ready for a beach day with good vibes.
If you are in Whitley Bay, don’t forget to try the famous Fish & Chips (is always better at the seaside), we went to a restaurant called Fisherman’s Bay is very near the South Parade. They do a fantastic chip butty, the place is often busy as is one of the famous spots in town. We do recommend take away and go down to the beach (be careful with the seagulls they can smell a good Fish & Chips from far).
Newcastle
Just 42 minutes away by metro is one of England’s famous cities, Newcastle. It is very easy to get there from Whitley Bay, but make sure you check the metro timings to go back as the metro stops working somewhere around 11 pm. Newcastle is a big city located on the River Tyne famous for its football club, quayside seaside, and crazy nightlife.
Newcastle United F.C has been kicking it since its early days, making it one of the oldest football clubs in the country. From the beginning, the club has been weaving a tapestry of rich history, and along the way, it’s gathered a squad of some seriously passionate fans.
For the ultimate Newcastle United fan experience, look no further than The Strawberry! This pub is like a shrine for the black and white army, decked out with signed shirts, scarves, and photos that scream football fever. Whether you’re gearing up for the game or winding down afterward, The Strawberry is the place to soak in that matchday mood and atmosphere. Get ready to join a sea of hardcore Geordies, belting out NUFC anthems from the first whistle to the last. It’s not just a pub; it’s a football-fueled party!
After having a few pints at The Strawberry, I went to visit the quayside seaside, and guess what? it was completely free, not far from the Millennium Bridge and the Pitcher and Piano, here you will see the seven bridges that cross the Tyne River, the most spectacular one is the Gateshead Millenium Bridge, the first and only tilting bridge (is built in a semi circle). When the mechanics kick into action, and the bridge does its leftward tilt, it’s like unlocking a secret passage for any ships cruising underneath. It’s like the bridge giving a nod to the boats, saying, “Hey, come on through!”.
Day 6-7: English football game
If you are in the United Kingdom you can’t miss to watch a football game. Football for Britain is special, believe it or not, they created the sport back in 1862. We started our day very early in the morning and drove 25 minutes south of Newcastle to Sunderland, to watch Sunderland vs Southampton in the Championship.
Cristian is a huge Southampton supporter so we didn’t miss the chance to watch this game, English football fans are absolute legends! Going to a stadium for them is like a wild party mixed with a religious experience. They deck themselves out in team gear, scarves flying high, and belt out chants that can be heard from miles away.
Before the match, it’s all about hitting the pubs, soaking in the buzz, and then marching to the stadium like a united army. Once inside, the energy is off the charts. Cheers, groans, and shouts create a symphony of football passion.
Sunderland is one of the few football clubs in England where you can buy tickets through the official website without an annual membership, we were fortunate to get prime seats near the Southampton bench, but we didn’t know that we were sitting next to the local team fans. A curious fact, if you come here make sure to don’t bring your beer with you at the seat because it is not allowed and you can get kicked out. Make sure you drink at the designated areas, is not like in the stadiums of your football teams back home.
The game ended up 5-0 for the locals, a very disappointing result for Cristian, but at least we both had some fun with the Sunderland fans at the stands.
Day 7-9: York
After a very exciting morning watching some football in Sunderland, we decided that it was time to move further south, this time 1.5 hours to the city of York.
Imagine York as this really old, cool city that was England’s second city back in the 1500s. It’s like a giant history book, full of stories, super awesome buildings, and just overall amazingness. York has been through a lot, but it still shines with its ancient stories and cool looks. It’s like a magical city that’s been around forever!
There are many places to visit in York, unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to visit them all. The city itself is like being in an old fairy tale, we went for a walk around the city center and stopped by the York Minster, it is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in northern Europe and was fully completed in 1472.
We arrived in York on a Saturday so we didn’t miss the chance to go out and experience how York look like at night. We went to check out The Shambles street. Imagine wandering down a street frozen in time, one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in all of Europe. Back in the day, butchers would set up their shops right at their windows, selling fresh meat to people passing by. The street is so narrow, and the houses are packed tightly together, almost like they’re leaning in to whisper ancient secrets. It’s like walking straight into a medieval marketplace!
Here’s a fun fact: some folks say this street might’ve inspired J.K. Rowling when she dreamed up Diagon Alley. Whether that’s true or not, just being here gives you major Harry Potter vibes! And guess what? You’ll find loads of Harry Potter-themed shops along this street, so you can channel your inner wizard or witch to your heart’s content. It’s like stepping right into the magical world of Harry Potter!
Walk around the River Ouse, the river passing through the city isn’t just your average waterway—it’s a gateway to adventure! Strolling along its banks, surrounded by lush parks and ancient buildings that whisper tales of the past. It’s like stepping into a storybook right in the heart of the city.
And the best part? Along the way, you’ll stumble upon cozy pubs where you can kick back with a pint and soak in the atmosphere.
If you feel adventurous?and get lost in all the hidden streets, sometimes you will find restaurants, cafes, and even haunted pubs.
We also found this unique Colombian restaurant in the streets of York called Tricolor York where they sell arepas, carimañolas and other Colombian dishes. As Cristian is from Colombia, we had to try the food here. If you ever go to York and want to eat something different perhaps you should to try this.
Day 9-10: Nottingham
Just 2 hours south we arrived in the city of Nottingham, the legendary home of Robin Hood, Nottingham Castle, and a pub that proudly boasts to be the oldest in the country. This city has it all. And the best part? It’s pretty compact, making it a perfect place for a stroll.
In the heart of the city, you can walk to museums, parks, historic buildings, and an awesome array of restaurants and bars. And if you fancy checking out a few more sights, no worries—public transport has got you covered. Nottingham is like a treasure chest of history, culture, and good times just waiting to be explored!
We were in Nottingham on a Sunday, so of course we had to eat Sunday Roast. We had the best Sunday Roast (lamb) at Fothergills, located just next to the Robin Hood statue.
After one night in Nottingham, we return to London, another 2 hours drive south where we also return the rental car.
Where to stay on the road trip (budget hotels)
Where to stay in Glasgow
We recommend The Burnside Hotel because it is located a bit outside the city, it has free parking, and is close public transport (metro and bus) with direct routes to the city centre.
Where to stay in Edinburgh
Finding an affordable hotel in the city with free parking is very difficult. We stayed in a “student accommodation”, Destiny Holyrood, located within walking distance from the city centre and also next to a bus stop. They don’t have parking, but there is paid parking on the street outside, which was available, plus there is a big car park at an outdoor shopping centre only 7 minutes walk away.
Where to stay in Whitley Bay
We choose to stay in Whitley Bay instead of in Newcastle as the coastal town is very beautiful plus the city of Newcastle is only 42 minutes train ride away. This Guest House had the most comfortable bed we had on this trip. There is also free parking. The only downside is shared bathroom, but they were really big and nice so we were not bothered by that.
Where to stay in York
We again decided to stay a bit outside of the city in a cozy Bed & Breakfast. It is run by a lovely old couple and was very comfortable. Free parking and breakfast included plus the bus stop to take a direct bus to the city was in front of the house.
Where to stay in Nottingham
Again, finding a hotel in the city with free parking is challenging. We stayed at Leonardo Hotel in the city with walking distance to the city centre. They don’t have parking, but across the road is the train station, which has paid long-term parking which cost about 10 GBP for 24 hours.
The total distance for this United Kingdom itinerary
You just spent 10 days virtually driving around this beautiful nation with us. If by now your love for the United Kingdom is at least half as strong as ours, then we recognise your trip will be a total success! We also have a complete blog dedicated to Australia road trip, in case you want an even bigger adventure!
The total distance of this itinerary is 940 miles or 1500 km. Keep in mind this doesn’t include distances driving around the towns.
Budget your road trip
To help you prepare for your road trip, we are sharing below how much it cost us, 2 people, to complete this 10 days trip (August 2023).
Car: 660 USD (This price is for 10 days including the full insurance that we do recommend taking so you don’t have to worry if you get hit by a small rock in the windscreen or a flat tire, the price also changes depending on the season and how far in advance you booked).
Petrol: 163 USD (Standard).
Accommodation: 890 USD
Food and Drinks: 800 USD
Total: 2,513 USD
The best part of driving with your own vehicle is that you can stop anywhere and don’t need to follow timetables from buses and trains so you have the freedom to decide when and where to go next.
Watch our video from our Road Trip in the United Kingdom
Conclusion
We felt that we could do the same itinerary in more days as the cities and places mentioned in this blog have so many things to do. We felt that we could add another day in Glasgow. To be honest, we enjoyed Scotland more than England, and next time we would love to spend more time in the northern parts of Scotland.
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