Traveling in the UK can be like exploring a storybook, full of history, culture, and natural beauty.
From its bustling cities to its tranquil countryside, there are overlooked gems and the well-trodden highlights. But If you only go to UK for six days, how to explore this wonderful country smoothly?
The real secret is planning your itinerary. So, here, I’ll give you a good travel plan for your trip. Let's begin our journey—and fall in love with the United Kingdom!
1. Considerations When Planning Your United Kingdom Travel Itinerary
Traveling to the UK requires a fair amount of planning to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip, so here are some general points to consider:
Budget – The amount you can spend on flights, accommodation, food, and activities will largely dictate the first two entries on this list.
Accommodation Options – From budget hostels to grandiose hotels, the UK can cater to any budget.
Time of Year – The weather varies a lot in the UK, so pick your seasons depending on your planned activities.
Interests and Activities – Whether you're here for the history, the stately homes, the nature, or the cities, the UK has something for everyone.
Health and Safety – Keep on top of the relevant health advice and safety guidelines.
Travel Restrictions and Visas – Make sure you have everything you need to get into and pass through the countries, and any visa requirements.
2. Perfect 7-Day Travel Itinerary for the United Kingdom
Now, I have prepared a wonderful travel plan for you. Let’s have a look.
Itinerary Overview
Start with three days in London tackling the city's greatest hits of culture and attractions, before heading to Cambridge, Eastbourne and the Cotswolds – then round things up with some R&R (and shopping) back in the capital. Here’s more details about this wonderful trip:
United Kingdom 7 Days Trip Table
Day | Destination | Recommended Activities |
1-2 | London | Day 1: St. Paul's Cathedral, Millennium Bridge, Thames River, Tower Bridge, Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, London Eye, Regent Street. Day 2: British Museum, Trafalgar Square, National Gallery, Chinatown, Watch Les Miserables. |
3 | Cambridge | King's College, Newton Apple Tree, Cruise |
4 | Eastbourne | Eastbourne Pier, Beachy Head, Lighthouse Birling Gap |
5 | Cotswolds | Bourton-on-the-Water, Bibury |
6 | London | Shopping, Harrods, Burberry outlet |
Detailed Itinerary for Day 1 to Day 6
Day 1: Exploring London
Today’s Itinerary takes you through iconic landmarks, offering a perfect introduction to London’s rich history and contemporary culture. Prepare for an adventure that sets the tone for your London exploration.
What to Do Today
St. Paul's Cathedral: This architectural gem offers breathtaking interiors and the chance to climb to the Whispering Gallery, where you can enjoy both the acoustics and panoramic views of London.
Millennium Bridge: A modern suspension bridge providing stunning views of the Thames. It connects St. Paul's Cathedral to Tate Modern, making it a perfect spot for photos and a leisurely stroll.
Thames River: The riverbanks are perfect for a leisurely walk, with opportunities to watch street performances and take in landmarks like Shakespeare's Globe and the Southbank Centre.
Tower Bridge: A visit to this iconic symbol of London includes exploring its exhibition, which provides insights into its history and workings. The glass floor walkways offer a unique perspective of the bridge and the city below.
Westminster Abbey: This historic church is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also the coronation site of British monarchs and the final resting place for many significant historical figures.
Big Ben: The famous clock tower, alongside the Houses of Parliament, is a quintessential London landmark that offers a perfect photo opportunity and a glimpse into the city's legislative heart.
London Eye: This giant Ferris wheel on the South Bank of the River Thames provides breathtaking, panoramic views of the city. Each capsule offers a 360-degree view, allowing you to spot landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the Shard, and St. Paul’s Cathedral.
Regent Street: One of London’s most famous shopping streets, Regent Street is home to a mix of high-end and high-street retailers, flagship stores, and unique boutiques. Enjoy shopping at iconic stores like Liberty London and Hamleys, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Where to Stay: Consider accommodations in the West End or South Bank area for convenient access to major attractions and a wide range of dining options.
Start your day early to beat the crowds at popular attractions and ensure you wear comfortable walking shoes to enjoy your day to the fullest.
Day 2: Art and Culture in London
London is famous for its rich art and cultural heritage. So, let’s explore world-class museums, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scenes.
What to Do Today
The British Museum: Packed with historical treasures from around the world, the British Museum is home to iconic pieces such as the Rosetta Stone and Egyptian mummies. Moreover, the entry is free.
Trafalgar Square: Its history entwines with contemporary events and celebrations, starting at its centerpiece, Nelson's Column
The National Gallery: More than 2,300 paintings housed here – the oldest dating to the 13th century – including masterpieces by Van Gogh, Da Vinci, and Turner.
Chinatown: A joy for the senses, Chinatown's bustling streets are filled with colorful decorations, unique stores and amazing restaurants serving food to suit every taste.
Les Misérables: End the day with a performance of the epic musical at its classic home, the Queen’s Theatre in the West End. With unsurpassed tunes and an epic storyline, this classic is a must-see for any theater lover.
Where to Stay: Covent Garden is an excellent choice for accommodation, offering a lively atmosphere and close proximity to theaters, museums, and a variety of dining options.
1. Secure your theater tickets in advance for the best seats.
2. Plan your museum visits to make the most of the free admission and ensure a smooth and enjoyable day.
Day 3: A Day in Cambridge
Having experienced the capital, it time to feel the charm and academic legacy of Cambridge with a day filled with historic sights and relaxing activities.
What to Do Today
King's College: One of the most instantly recognisable university sites in the world, with stunning Gothic architecture and the world-famous King's College Chapel.
Newton Apple Tree: Also at Trinity, this tree is supposedly the very same under whose canopy Isaac Newton sat when he formulated his theory of gravity
Cruise the River Cam: Punt your way through serene views of the back of various colleges, plus the beautiful adjacent countryside.
Where to Stay: Choose a central location in Cambridge to stay, ensuring easy access to the colleges and the River Cam. This makes it convenient to explore the city on foot or by bike.
1. Renting a bike is a great way to explore Cambridge like a local.
2. Consider booking a guided punting tour for an informative and enjoyable experience on the river.
Day 4: Coastal Beauty of Eastbourne
After walking through the bustling cities, today’s itinerary offers tranquil scenery along the shoreline, for a breath of fresh air and a blast of seaside nostalgia.
What to See Today
Beachy Head: The highest chalk sea cliff in the UK offers unrivaled views of the rolling cliffs along the coast. Bring a spyglass and a sense of peace when you visit the Lonely Lighthouse.
Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters: A little untouched beauty on the coast, Birling Gap is home to a lovely stony beach and the county's greatest coastline. Bring your inner David Attenborough and approach to a day communing with nature!
Where to Stay: Splash out on a seaside hotel or check into a cute B&B around the pier to really soak in the coast, and have the town's highlights on your doorstep.
1. The hiking isn’t too demanding, but some sturdy walking shoes would be best.
2. Plan your visit to Birling Gap around the tide times for the best views and to access the
Day 5: Charm of the Cotswolds
This day comes to the beautiful Cotswolds, an area of outstanding natural beauty known for its picture-perfect villages and stunning countryside. It is a day focusing on some of the most enchanting slices of the Cotswolds, Bourton-on-the-Water and Bibury.
What to Do Today
Bourton-on-the-Water: Sometimes referred to as the "Venice of the Cotswolds," this picturesque village is crossed by low bridges over the River Windrush and has quaint little streets.
Bibury: Most famous for the picturesque Arlington Row, Bibury itself is a center of chocolate-box cottages set against an intrinsically beautiful environment.
Where to Stay: Opt for an inn or agreeable bed and breakfast in one of the Cotswolds towns to fully sample local hospitality and character.
For the best chance to find Cotswolds gems, it’s advisable to have a car with you to more easily explore the lesser-known sites.
Day 6: Back to London
The last day, let's return to the fast-paced capital for a day of retail therapy. From high-end luxury to dazzling variety, there are shopping surprises around every corner.
What to Do Today
Shopping Districts: Look for luxury brands in Bond Street, vintage finds and colorful markets in Camden and Portobello Road, or lose an afternoon wandering the shops in any neighborhood.
Harrods: Located in Knightsbridge, it is a department store that sells everything from the luxurious to the daily necessities.
Burberry Outlet: If you love high-end fashion, head to the Burberry Outlet to score some great deals on amazing styles. The quintessentially British brand remains popular, and prices can be significantly lower than at high street outlets.
Where to Stay: Return to your base in Kensington or Knightsbridge – depending on the hotel you chose previously
Visit Harrods early in the day to avoid the crowds and for a more relaxed experience.
Tips for Shortening/Extending the 7 Days Itinerary
Shortening the Trip: Consider spending less time in London or skipping the Cotswolds, focus on the major attractions and cut down on less essential activities.
Extending the Trip: To extend your trip, add more days in the countryside or explore other cities like Bath or York. Consider adding a visit to Scotland's Edinburgh or the Lake District for more scenic beauty and historical sites.
3. Top 10 United Kingdom Food and Drink
Talking gastronomy in the UK is like a cuisine-based road trip. From breakfasts that set you up for the day to refined afternoon teas, the national pantry is varied and diverse.
1. Fish and Chips:
A battered and deep-fried filet of fish, typically cod or haddock, served with chunky chips (what Americans call fries), and often mushy peas and tartar sauce. An essential at any coastal destination.
2. Sunday Roast:
A traditional roast on – you guessed it – Sundays, typically featuring roast meat (beef, chicken, lamb, or pork), roast potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy.
3. Full English Breakfast:
A gut-busting plate of eggs, bacon, sausages (often several types), baked beans, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, black pudding (blood sausage), and toast.
4. Afternoon Tea:
A refined, late-afternoon meal of finger sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and a selection of cakes and pastries, all washed down with a pot of tea.
5. Cornish Pasty:
A filled pastry case shaped like, well, a pasty, first made in Cornwall, and typically containing beef, potato, onion, and swede (which the Yanks confusingly term rutabaga).
6. Shepherd’s Pie:
Minced lamb and veg in a gravy, with a mashed potato topping. When made with beef, it’s known as Cottage Pie.
7. Black Pudding:
Blood sausage, literally. Made from pork blood, fat, and oatmeal, it appears on breakfast plates and as a starter or snack.
8. Ploughman’s Lunch:
A cold, simple meal, usually of bread, cheese, pickles, and salad. A classic fixture of pub food, sometimes washed down with a recommended pint of ale.
9. Eton Mess:
A dessert, and typically English in that it’s messy, that mixes strawberries, broken meringue, and whipped cream.
10. Sticky Toffee Pudding:
A rich, sponge-based dessert made with finely chopped dates, served drizzled in toffee sauce, and often accompanied by a side of vanilla ice cream or custard.
4. Additional Tips for United Kingdom Traveling
Pack Smart
Ensure you’re packing for changeable weather when traveling to the UK, with a waterproof coat, good walking shoes, and layered clothing to accommodate different temperatures. Make sure to pack UK travel adapters, a portable charger, and any required medication, too.
Cash, Local Payment/Transport Apps
Though it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases, contactless payment is widespread in the UK. In London, consider using local apps Oyster or Contactless for public transport, and nationwide Apple Pay or Google Pay for cardless payment.
Local Etiquette and Customs
When meeting locals, a “Hello” or “Good day” will serve you well. Politeness is highly valued, so be sure to use “please” and “thank you” as appropriate. Be wary of your volume, avoid loud conversations in public, always be prepared to apologize if you bump someone, and stand on the right side of escalators.
Local Transport Options
The UK has exceptional public transport options available, from the trains to buses, to the London Underground – and they’re all generally efficient and well-connected. If you know you’ll be doing a lot of train travel, purchasing a rail pass is advisable. Alternatively, taxis and Uber are easily accessed.
Rentals: Cars and Scooter Hire
Hiring a car gives you the freedom to explore, particularly outside of cities, but do remember that traffic travels on the left-hand side in the UK. Roads can be narrow and parking a headache. Scooters are less common, and can be risky in packed urban environments. Be mindful of the laws of the road and wear a helmet.
Language Tips
Although English is the main language here, accents can be as thick as glue. A few local words or known regional slang can help break the ice and better locals impressions, too. In London, “cheers” replaces “thanks”, for example, while “loop” finds favor over “bathroom” in any location.
Summary
That's all about a thrilling 6-day trip to the United Kingdom with my carefully planned itinerary.
From the classic sights of London, to the peace of the Cotswolds and the striking coast at Eastbourne, every day brings new experiences and cultural wonders. Sample local tastes, enjoy beautiful scenery and absorb the history of the UK.
Hope my day-to-day schedules and tips can take you to the best the UK has to offer and make every second unforgettable!