Thinking of a journey across the United Kingdom but not sure where to start? A well-planned travel itinerary can make all the difference.
But how to do it quickly? Well, I've put together an itinerary to capture the best of the UK in 11 days. It cuts through the confusion, offering a clear, day-by-day journey from London to Edinburgh.
Read on for the best advice and hints to get a nice trip schedule in minutes!
1. Things to Think About When Planning Your UK Trip
Before you start your adventure in the UK, there are some things you gotta think about to make sure your trip fits just what you like and need. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Budget: Knowing what you can afford to spend determines where you can stay, eat, and what activities you can do.
Accommodations: Whether it’s a cozy B&B or a luxury hotel, where you stay depends on comfort requirements and location proximity.
Best Time to Go: The season can impact your visit, in terms of weather and how crowded places are, so plan for the ideal time to visit.
Interests: Make sure your plans match your passions, whether that’s seeing historical sites, enjoying natural beauty, or feasting on local cuisine.
Health and Safety: Stay in-the-know about health advice and safety measures.
Travel Documentation and Guidelines: It’s always worth double-checking you have all the documents you need, and are aware of any travel requirements.
2. Your 11-Day UK Tour Guide
Here are the details of your 11-day journey through the United Kingdom, from the historic sights of London to the natural beauty of the Lake District.
Start in London, exploring famous landmarks before heading north to the historic cities of Cambridge and York, up to the cultural hub of Edinburgh, and wrapping up with the natural wonder of the Lake District and the lively bustle of Brighton.
United Kingdom 11 Days Trip Table:
Day | Location | Recommended Activities/Route |
1 | London | Big Ben, London Eye, Household Cavalry, Tate Gallery |
2 | London | St. Paul's Cathedral, Tower of London, Tower Bridge |
3 | London | Buckingham Palace, Hyde Park, The British Museum |
4 | Cambridge | Mathematical Bridge, King's College, St. John's College |
5 | York | York Castle, Shambles, York Minster |
6 | Edinburgh | Edinburgh Castle, Princes Street, National Gallery of Scotland |
7 | Edinburgh | Royal Mile, St Giles' Cathedral, National Museum of Scotland |
8 | Edinburgh | Palace of Holyroodhouse, Calton Hill |
9 | Lake District | National Forest Park, Windermere, Find Peter Rabbit's Hometown |
10 | Birmingham | Museum and Art Gallery, Peaky Blinders Row, Birmingham Canal |
11 | Brighton | Seven Sisters White Cliffs, Brighton Beach |
Day 1: Start in London
Don’t waste any time jumping straight into London. Visit London Town's best known spots Big Ben and the London Eye, plus Tate Gallery for some high-art culture.
What You Can Discover Today:
Big Ben: This famous clock tower stands as a symbol of London and the UK.
London Eye: You can’t – and shouldn’t – miss the massive 443 ft observation wheel.
Household Cavalry Museum: Check out where the Queen's horses and guards are kept.
Tate Gallery: Get cultured at the hand of artists from around the world.
Where to Stay:
Look for a place in central London. It’ll make it easier for you to see most of the major attractions, and has a multitude of public transport links.
Central London is the place to be – easy to reach all the main attractions, plenty of public transport options.
Day 2: Exploring Historic London
There’s more to London than a ben and an eye. Visit the shadow of St Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London today – and there’s plenty else for you to get up to before and after.
What You Can Discover Today:
St. Paul's Cathedral: Take a deep breath; you’ll need it to climb up and enjoy the view of London from St. Paul’s famed dome.
Tower of London: So much history, and also so much bling. The Crown Jewels are kept here.
Tower Bridge: It’s not just a pretty bridge – find out how it works inside!
Where to Stay:
The South Bank of the Thames has some great hotels, and glorious views across the river. It’s also easy to get to plenty of other London sights.
A river cruise will provide you with a leisurely view of London, while a nice spot of afternoon tea beside the water will give you another very “on holiday in Britain” experience.
Day 3: Royal and Cultural London
Okay, you probably won’t actually end up living like the royal family, but you can at least see where The Queen lives and works. Afterwards, take in the restorative greenery of Hyde Park before heading over to the British Museum.
What You Can Discover Today:
Buckingham Palace: See the Changing of the Guard ceremony. If you’re lucky, you might even be able to take a tour of the state rooms.
Hyde Park: Ideal for a peaceful walk or a boat ride on the Serpentine.
The British Museum: Home to the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles, among thousands of other important artifacts.
Where to Stay:
Covent Garden is where you should aim your search. As well as being near entertainment galore, you’re close to some fantastic restaurants.
Arrive early for the Changing of the Guard at Buckingham Palace to get a front row spot. For a more peaceful experience at the bustling British Museum, arrive in late afternoon.
Day 4: Cambridge’s Academic Charms
Road trip to Cambridge and spend the day exploring the beautiful and prestigious grounds of the University of Cambridge, checking out King’s College Chapel and the picturesque – and not really mathematical at all – Mathematical Bridge.
What You Can Discover Today:
Mathematical Bridge: Known for its unique design and the myths surrounding Isaac Newton’s supposed involvement.
King's College: Wander the campus of one of the university’s wealthiest and most famous colleges, once again making time for the stunning chapel.
St. John's College: Justifiably renowned for its stunning grounds, St. John's is often visited for its photogenic Bridge of Sighs.
Where to Stay:
Book a night in a historic coaching inn to steep in the university atmosphere.
Rent a bike to explore the city like a local or consider punting on the River Cam for a traditional Cambridge experience.
Day 5: Medieval York
Head north to York, and spend the day exploring the city, including strolling the Shambles, Europe’s most authentically-preserved medieval shopping street.
Don’t overlook York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals, and the York Castle Museum, carrying tales from the city’s past.
What You Can Discover Today:
York Minster: The stunning cathedral you won’t be able to miss – but take a closer look at the stained glass windows.
The Shambles: A street from another world is the charm of York, and where better to start your exploration.
York Castle Museum: Everything from Vikings to Victorians can be found here.
Where to Stay:
Opt for a quaint guest house within the city walls to be close to major attractions and the atmospheric old town.
Stop for a cream tea and fancies in one of the old town’s further eateries, and consider a ghost walk in the evening.
Day 6: Exploring Edinburgh Castle and Princes Street
Edinburgh is a day trip’s drive north, and the first stop is undoubtedly Edinburgh Castle. Princes Street offers leisurely shopping or picnicking in the adjacent park.
What You Can Discover Today:
Edinburgh Castle: Scotland’s most-visited attraction is more than just an imposing building, but the multiple museums within.
National Gallery of Scotland: Like most capitals, there’s no shortage of culture to see, with paintings, sculpture, and an overall omg from the likes of Van Gogh and Monet.
Princes Street: The main shopping street offers sweeping views over the Old Town, and is a great place to shop or just take in the bustle.
Where to Stay:
In Edinburgh's Old Town, of a castle or your visiting card.
Queue for tickets to the castle is long, so consider booking in advance. Mid-morning – once it’s quietened – is the best time to visit.
Day 7: Royal Mile to National Museum of Scotland
Spend the day walking the Royal Mile, the historic street that runs from the Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse.
See St Giles' Cathedral with its stunning stained-glass windows along the way, and end at the National Museum of Scotland, which will take you at least a few hours to explore.
What You Can Discover Today:
Royal Mile: Filled with history, this street is great for finding Scottish souvenirs and exploring hidden alleys.
St Giles' Cathedral: Notable for its beautiful architecture and the Thistle Chapel.
National Museum of Scotland: Covers a wide array of collections that illustrate Scotland’s history and its role in the world.
Where to Stay:
Staying near the Royal Mile keeps you in the heart of the action and surrounded by history.
Little alleys and closes run off the Royal Mile – take a wander to find even more historical sights and delightful boutique shops.
Day 8: Holyrood Palace and Calton Hill
Your last day in Edinburgh should include a visit to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland. It’s a gorgeous structure and steeped in Scottish royal history.
Then, pop over to nearby Calton Hill, which offers one of the city’s most iconic panoramas.
What You Can Discover Today:
Palace of Holyroodhouse: Step inside the British monarch's home in Scotland, exploring the state apartments and the gardens.
Calton Hill: The view of the city is one of the best, and the hill itself is easily ascended, with several iconic monuments.
Where to Stay:
Consider accommodation close to central Edinburgh allowing easy access to Holyroodhouse and Calton Hill.
Holyroodhouse has fascinating temporary exhibits in addition to the main tour. If you climb Calton Hill for sunset, you can capture some of the best shots of Edinburgh.
Day 9: The Lake District’s Natural Beauty
Travel to the Lake District to experience the picturesque landscapes, and the region's connection to the Romantic poets. Windermere is the largest natural lake in England, and you can pay a visit to the Beatrix Potter Gallery on its shore or take to the waters.
What You Can Discover:
Lake District National Park: Whatever you're up for – from a demanding hike to a relaxing stroll – there's beauty to be found.
Windermere: Hop on a boat tour to explore the lake's islands and picturesque surroundings.
Peter Rabbit's Hometown: A visit to Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's old home, was one of our favorites. She wrote Peter Rabbit here!
Where to Stay:
There are hotels by the lakeside or rent a cottage for an authentically English experience.
Come prepared for wet – bring a raincoat and decent footwear – and hungry. Cumberland sausage or tattie pot was a welcome meal change!
Day 10: Birmingham’s Industrial Heritage
Visit Birmingham, a city known for its rich industrial heritage and vibrant cultural scene. The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery is a cultural gem, while the historic canals offer a reminder of this city’s former industrial might.
What You Can Discover:
Peaky Blinders Row: As a fan of the show, walking through areas of the city that inspired it was pretty cool.
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery: This place is packed with amazing art, artifacts, and historical documents. There's a lot to learn here.
Birmingham Canal: Discover the city’s history and enjoy contemporary dining and nightlife along the waterfront.
Where to Stay:
Opt for a hotel in the city center near the canal district, which is not only scenic but also bustling with nightlife and dining options.
Keep an eye out for special exhibits at the museum, or explore the burgeoning food scene. Birmingham is in the midst of a culinary revolution with diverse international cuisines rubbing shoulders with more traditional British fare.
Day 11: Coastal Retreat in Brighton
Conclude your UK journey in Brighton, a vibrant coastal city. Visit the iconic Brighton Pier for classic seaside fun and explore the quirky shops in The Lanes. Take a reflective walk along the Seven Sisters cliffs for stunning views before enjoying some fresh seafood on the beach.
What You Can Discover:
Brighton Beach: It's not just about the pebbles; the arts scene and nightlife here are vibrant.
Seven Sisters White Cliffs: The views here are absolutely breathtaking—perfect for a scenic walk.
Brighton Pier: Fun games, rides, and classic seaside snacks made for a perfect end to the day.
Where to Stay:
Choose a seafront hotel in Brighton for stunning sea views and easy access to the beach and city attractions.
Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city and the cliffs. Try some local seafood, which is fresh and plentiful in this coastal town.
3. Top 10 United Kingdom Foods and Drinks
UK food is renowned for being comforting and hearty, with a long history that blends the influences of so many regions and cultures. Here are ten absolute must-tries to get a taste of the nation’s offer from around the home countries.
1. Fish and Chips:
Description: A classic British fast food, consisting of battered and fried fish (commonly cod or haddock) served with thick-cut fries known as chips. Best enjoyed hot and traditionally served wrapped in paper with a side of mushy peas and tartar sauce.
Why Try It: It's the quintessential British dish, perfect for a casual meal by the seaside or from a local "chippy."
2. Sunday Roast:
Description: A classic, hearty Sunday main course with roast meats (beef, chicken, pork, or lamb), roast potatoes, Yorkshire pudding, stuffing, vegetables, and gravy.
Why try it: A comforting plate that speaks to British family life and dining traditions.
3. Full English Breakfast:
Description: A substantial start to any day with eggs, bacon, sausages, beans, toast, mushrooms, and tomatoes. Usually washed down with a cup of strong tea.
Why Try It: It's a robust meal that will energize you for a day of exploring and gives insight into a classic British morning.
4. Afternoon Tea:
Description: A British ritual that includes a selection of teas paired with an assortment of sandwiches (like cucumber, egg, and cress), scones with clotted cream and jam, and various pastries and cakes.
Why Try It: Afternoon tea offers a genteel experience that showcases British sophistication and culinary elegance.
5. Haggis:
Description: A traditional Scottish dish made from sheep's heart, liver, and lungs, minced with onion, oatmeal, suet, spices, and salt, encased in the animal's stomach and cooked.
Why Try It: Haggis is a celebrated part of Scottish cuisine, particularly during Burns Night. It's a unique dish with a surprisingly savory and rich flavor.
6. Welsh Cawl:
Description: A lamb broth, featuring a plethora of vegetables – commonly leeks, potatoes, and carrots – simmered to perfection for the ideal umami-rich soup.
Why Try It: Every Welsh home has its own recipe for cawl but all will tell you it's a food hug in a bowl. Perfect for a hearty winter meal.
7. Cornish Pasty:
Description: A baked pastry, the traditional meal for miners in Cornwall. The pasty is typically filled with beef, potato, rutabaga, and onion. The crust was often used as a handy 'handle' while eating.
Why Try It: The pasty is a robust, portable dinner, and its shape is said to have been designed to fit miners' dirty hands to be discarded when they'd finish their meal – ensuring they wouldn't be eating any mineral traces.
8. Bangers and Mash:
Description: A simple, satisfying dish of sausages (bangers) and mashed potatoes, often served with onion gravy, peas, or beans.
Why Try It: You'll find this on menus across the UK. It's simple, good, home-cooked food.
9. Sticky Toffee Pudding:
Description: A beloved British dessert consisting of a moist sponge cake made with finely chopped dates, covered in a luscious toffee sauce and often served with vanilla custard or ice cream.
Why Try It: It's a sweet treat that perfectly represents the indulgent side of British cuisine.
10. Scotch Whisky:
Description: A spirit made in Scotland, renowned globally, and existent in various forms – single malt, blended malt, and blended whiskies.
Why Try It: Whether you sample a smoky, peaty whisky from Islay, or a lighter bourbon cask style from Speyside, Scottish whisky has a universal reputation for both quality and variety.
4. Additional Tips for Traveling in the United Kingdom
Once you know where you're going, visiting the UK should be relatively simple, especially with these top tips to help things go as smoothly – and as enjoyable – as possible.
Packing Essentials:
With famously changeable weather, the UK can present every type of day from brilliant sun to sudden storms. Consider packing:
Layers: T-shirts, sweaters, and a lightweight waterproof jacket should all have a place in your bag, allowing for unpredictable temperatures.
Rain Gear: An umbrella and a good raincoat are necessary for visiting the UK, especially if you don't want to leave it down to chance.
Comfortable Footwear: Whether you're checking out the cities or enjoying hikes, comfortable walking shoes are essential.
UK Power Adapter: Power sockets used in the UK are type G, which are uniquely shaped, but you can find the right adapter for your electronics inexpensively.
Travel Guidebook: Whether in print or on your device, a handy travel guidebook can help prompt you to see local sights and deliver historical tidbits along the way.
Cash Necessity & Local Apps:
While the UK is largely card-friendly, there's still some value in keeping cash to hand, especially in more rural destinations, or for making small purchases at local markets.
App Aid: Citymapper is great for navigating public transport networks in major towns and cities. Use apps such as OpenTable and Just Eat for booking at restaurants and getting food delivered. The Trainline app can also be very handy when planning different rail journeys across the UK.
Local Etiquette and Customs:
Being aware of local customs will help you connect more effectively with residents and enhance your overall experience of a place.
Politeness: Brits are very polite. Always say “please” and “thank you”, and apologize even if someone steps on your foot.
Queueing: Never push in front of anyone in a line, this is taken very seriously.
Tipping: In restaurants, tipping 10-15 percent of the bill is standard if service is not included. Drivers and hotel staff also expect tips.
Transport Options:
The UK boasts impressive public transport infrastructure, including buses, trams, and trains, making it easy to navigate the country.
Trains: The rail network links cities as well as the countryside. For frequent trips, investigate a rail pass for savings.
Buses: Local buses are usually a good value, especially for short trips between towns. Companies like National Express and Megabus offer affordable inter-city travel.
Internal Flights: If traveling longer distances, such as between Scotland and England, don’t overlook domestic flights which can save time.
Renting a Car or Scooter & Driving:
Having your own wheels will offer a lot more freedom when exploring rural areas or counties with scarce public transport.
Driving on the Left: Remember, the UK drives on the left-hand side of the road. Familiarize yourself with UK road rules and signs before driving.
Rural Driving: Be cautious when driving on narrow country lanes, and watch for abrupt turns and blind spots.
Urban Areas: If spending time in London, navigate the congestion pricing system.
Communication: Language Tips:
English may be the common language – but UK accents can be a world away from each other, so listen up.
Common Phrases: Get familiar with local slang to avoid confusion. “Cheers” is more than a toast, “loo” is where you’ll be peeing, and no, they really don’t call smoking “fags” over here.
Local Languages: Wales signs are in Welsh and English – make yourself more used to that fact and learn some basic phrases in Welsh.
Summary
This 11-day travel itinerary offers a full exploration of the United Kingdom’s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes.
From the historical depths of London to the scenic beauty of the Lake District, this guide ensures a memorable and comprehensive UK adventure. Have a nice trip!