england tour 10 days

10 Day England Itinerary: The Best Sights And Attractions In England

This 10-day england itinerary takes you on a tour of the most famous sights in the country, plus a few hidden gems.

If you’re planning a trip to the United Kingdom, it’s hard to know where to start. The first big decision is do you fancy spending all of your time in England, or perhaps venture to Wales or Scotland too? While Britain isn’t a huge island (you could drive from Land’s End in the south to John O’Groats in the north in under 15 hours) the scenery is varied and you’ll want to take your time.

If it’s your first visit, I’d recommend focusing on England, and spending at least a week travelling around. You can move at a fast pace and visit a new place each day, but if you fancy a more leisurely trip, you’ll probably want to allow a minimum of 2 days in some of them, especially when you factor in the travel time.

Coming up is a 10-day England itinerary packed full of the best sights in the country. I’ll admit it’s been really difficult to choose where to include. There are SO many other places that are equally as beautiful, but this route gives you a nice variety.

From London’s museums and iconic landmarks, to the epic beauty of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, Bath’s history and the landscapes of the Lake District, this itinerary has it all! If you want to wander through streets that could feature in Harry Potter or soak up the romance of where The Holiday was filmed, there are some iconic movie locations on this route too.

The easiest way to travel around England is by car. It’ll give you the flexibility to get off the beaten track, visit some unique destinations and pack as much into your trip as your time allows. However, if you’d rather use public transport, all of these locations are accessible by trains or buses too.

10-Day England Itinerary: The Best Sights And Attractions In England

2 days in london.

There’s SO much to see in the UK’s capital, you could easily spend a week exploring the city. For this 10-day England itinerary I’ve suggested you spend 2 days in London and pack in as much sightseeing as you can.

If it’s your first time in London you can’t miss the key landmarks. Watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, see London from a different angle from one of the 32 pods on the London Eye, check the time at Big Ben, explore Westminster Abbey, wave to Nelson in Trafalgar Square, see Tower Bridge open for a tall ship, see the crown jewels sparkling inside the Tower of London and step inside St Paul’s Cathedral. It sounds like a lot, but you can see so many sights with a long walk along the River Thames.

One of the best ways of doing all of this is on a bus tour. We really like this vintage open-top bus tour which is just oh so quintessentially British. This tour has a guide explaining all the top sights.

Alternatively, another tour we love is this half-day bike tour . In 4 hours you get to ride around London taking in all the sights – it’s a really cool way of seeing London, especially on a bright sunny day.

If you love museums, take a trip to South Kensington and venture inside the impressive Natural History Museum and Science Museums. They both have lots of interesting interactive exhibits and are great for families.

For tasty food, take a wander through Borough Market or Camden Market. If you love architecture, how about a little tour of Notting Hill. The pastel coloured houses are like something out of a kid’s book. Or for a great view, walk to the top of Primrose Hill. It’s one of our favourite spots on a sunny day. 

The easiest way to get around London is using public transport. You can either pick up an Oyster Card (a contactless travel card) or use your own contactless bank card.

1 Day In Brighton

After a great few days in London, it’s time to escape to the coast. Brighton is one of the best seaside day trips from London by train (journey takes one hour) and a gorgeous place to explore on foot.

There’s the pier which is crammed full of fun rides, amusement arcades and food outlets wafting the sickly scent of donuts through the air. There’s a mammoth pebbly beach, lined with little art galleries, gift shops and restaurants.

For a great view of Brighton, you could take a trip on the i360 – a tourist attraction which offers great views of the area. Plus, there are some gorgeous hotels on the seafront if you want to stay overnight.

One of our favourite things about Brighton is the shopping scene. The Lanes and North Laine are full of character, and are THE place to visit for independent stores, quirky cafes and restaurants. This is a great place to shop for vintage jewellery and bohemian clothing.

Once you’ve done all of that, you’ll definitely have earned some fish and chips on the beach. Just watch out for the seagulls overhead – they’re always hungry!

1 Day In Dorset

I was debating whether to recommend two days in Cornwall, or break up the journey with one day in Dorset. Needless to say, Dorset won! I visited last year for the first time and would definitely suggest you include a stop there on your 10-day England itinerary.

Dorset is known for its dramatic coastline, known as the Jurassic Coast. I’d recommend the clifftop walk from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door – England’s iconic rock arch. If you have time, you could also do the walk from Studland Bay to Old Harry Rocks. It’s another beautiful spot, with huge chalk stones standing in the water.

Alternatively, if you fancy a more relaxing day you could drive to West Bay to see the enormous limestone cliffs, which show the falling sea levels from over 175 million years ago. Or enjoy the adorable English villages of Milton Abbas or Abbotsbury.

Both have main streets lined with charming thatched cottages, many decorated with pretty plants and flowers. It’s got a quaint English charm! 

Alternatively, if you’re basing yourself in London for your England itinerary, then this is an amazing 5 day tour of Dorset and Cornwall . On this tour EVERYTHING is taken care of for you, so you don’t need to worry about transport, tickets or anything else like that.

1 Day In Cornwall

Cornwall is one of my favourite parts of England. This southern region of mainland Britain is where you’ll find a spectacular rugged coastline, top surf beaches and some of the best fresh seafood in the country. It’s a walker’s paradise, and a great place for day hikes along the South West Coast Path .

The Cornish coastline is stunning – it’s no wonder it’s one of the top places for people to go on holiday in UK. For beach time head to Fistral Beach (Newquay’s famous surf beach), Bedruthan Steps (epic rock views), Pedn Vounder (might have you fooled for the Caribbean) or Kynance Cove (with its incredible rock formation).

Alternatively, you could focus on Cornwall’s food scene. There are lots of great restaurants dotted around the county, but the most famous town for gastronomy is Padstow .

Legendary chefs Rick Stein and Paul Ainsworth have launched a culinary empire in the town, and there’s a nice mix of high-end to budget friendly options. Most of them involve fresh fish and seafood brought in daily by fisherman in Padstow Harbour. Read our guide to the 13 best places to eat in Padstow before you go! 

1 Day In Bath

Bath is one of England’s prettiest cities. Most buildings here are constructed from Bath stone – a beige limestone which gives the city a certain uniformity. It’s a very walkable city, and one of my top recommendations would be to get lost in the pretty streets.

There are a few highlights not to be missed. If you’re a lover of history, the city of Bath offers a lot. First time visitors must visit the Roman baths . It’s incredible to learn about the ancient ways of the Romans and their impact on modern civilisation.

For the best views, I’d recommend climbing the tower of Bath Abbey (bookable as part of a guided tour). It’s a tiring climb up, but well worth it once you see the stunning cityscapes from the top.

Alternatively, an evening cruise on the water with a glass of prosecco is a great way of seeing the city too!

If you’re craving relaxation after a busy few days of travelling, you could spend some time enjoying the soothing waters of Thermae Bath Spa. There are several pools, saunas and steam rooms. One pool is on a roof terrace and offers lovely views of the city too!

Bath is a sophisticated city, with great places to eat and drink, lovely independent shops and plenty of history, so it’s s great addition to your 10-day England itinerary!

1 Day In The Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is one of the most picturesque regions of England. If you’ve grown up watching films set in cute English villages, you can bet 99% of the time they were filmed in this area! You know, the beautiful snowy Christmas scenes in The Holiday and Bridget Jones? Yep, they were filmed in the Cotswolds.

If you’re only spending one day in the area as part of a bigger 10-day England itinerary, I’d recommend visiting Bibury and walking down Arlington Row. After that, head to Moreton in Marsh, Bourton on the Water, Upper and Lower Slaughter and Broadway.

The best way to enjoy this area is on a little road trip, stopping off at towns and villages, then having a little country walk before enjoying a traditional cream tea. There are a number of beautiful accommodation options in this area too, from adorable B&Bs to huge country manor houses.

Alternatively, if you want everything taken care of for you, then this is one of the most popular tours of the Cotswolds from London . It is packed full of all the top things to do in the area, and it’s one of the most recommended Cotswold tours out there!

2 Days In The Lake District

After spending time in The Cotswolds, it’s time to head north. It’s a long journey, so it might be best to add in a travel day at this point if possible.

The Lake District is England’s largest national park and covers 912 square miles. It’s stunningly beautiful, with rolling hills, pretty lakes and some of the best restaurants in the country.

With just two days in the area, we’d recommend a mix of hiking, water activities and good food. There are lots of Michelin starred restaurants in the Lake District , so you could treat yourselves to an extra special meal. Our favourite was Cottage in the Wood, but there are a few others including Simon Rogan’s L’Enclume that we’d love to visit one day!

In terms of hiking, one of our favourite routes is up to Cat Bells. The views from up there are absolutely incredible. We also really enjoyed the hike from Pooley Bridge to Aira Force waterfall . The route passes high over the hills, with epic views of Ullswater from the top.

If you like getting out on the water, then there are plenty of opportunities in this area. You could kayak, hire a sailing boat, try stand up paddle boarding, go canyoning or enjoy a leisurely journey on board the historic Ullswater Steamer.

Another fantastic Great British tour is of 10 lakes in the Lake District . Here you get to hop from each lake seeing which one is your favourite – it’s a

1 Day In Cambridge

You’ve made it to the final day of your 10-day England itinerary, and it’s time for a trip to Cambridge. History lovers will adore walking the grounds of famous university colleges here. The architecture is amazing and feels very grand. The city centre has plenty of shops, restaurants and cafes to enjoy too.

One of the top things to do in Cambridge is go punting . It’s not an activity that goes on in other cities really – Cambridge is THE place for it. There’s nothing quite like gliding down the River Cam learning all about the history of Cambridge while on a punting tour.

As you relax on board the boat you get to see some of the sights that are tricky to view properly from the banks of the river, including the spectacular Bridge of Sighs, the Mathematical Bridge and the back of King’s College.

As another thing to do, it’s really popular to take a tour of the colleges too for that real Cambridge university experience.

It’s a beautiful city to explore, and a great place to round off an exciting and varied 10 days in England.

Fancy going further afield? Head to Scotland and visit Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile or venture out into the stunning Scottish Highlands.

Alternatively, you could cross the border into Wales and visit Snowdonia or the Gower Coast. There’s so much to see in Britain – who knows where you’ll end up!

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3 thoughts on “10 Day England Itinerary: The Best Sights And Attractions In England”

Excellent article with lovely pictures. Very informative.

Lovely write up, helped me a lot for decoding my itinerary of UK

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10 Days in England Itinerary for First-Timers

The UK is filled with historical and cultural destinations as well as a whole host of stunning landscapes so it would be a shame to just stay in one location when visiting England. In order to get a real taste of what England is all about, you want to travel the length and breadth of the country, visiting sights such as Buckingham Palace, the Tower of London, the Roman Baths, Oxford University, and Shakespeare’s hometown, Stratford-Upon-Avon. This jam-packed England itinerary does just that with visits to London, Bath, Oxford, Stratford-Upon-Avon, and York.

Spending 10 days in England is enough to give you an insight into the country’s cuisine, culture, and community spirit and allows you to tick off some real bucket list destinations. While you’ll still only scrape the surface of what England has to offer in this 10-day itinerary, it is a great whistle-stop tour of some of the best bits and it will certainly make your England-loving friends and family back home jealous!

This itinerary perfectly balances a range of destinations with some stints of travel, so you don’t feel as though you’re spending the whole time on the road but are not just stuck in one place either!

Read on to find out more about this 10-day England itinerary so you can start planning your trip…

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links, and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission.

Table of Contents

TRAVEL TIPS

🚗 Rent your car in advance

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✈️ Book your flight in advance

To find the cheapest flights and most suitable option, use WayAway

🧾 Get your tickets and tours

with Viator and get the most out of your journey

10 days in England: Day One  – Arriving in London

You’ll likely be tired after your journey but make the most of every hour you have and get yourself out onto the streets to explore the most iconic locations of good old London Town!

Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square

Make your way to Trafalgar Square where you’ll find Nelson’s Column towering 52 meters into the air and guarded by four stone lions. Take some moments to admire the other statues, especially ‘Fourth Plinth’, before making your way down the famous tree-lined street ‘The Mall’ for your first glimpse of Buckingham Palace – Be sure to get your timing right so you can witness the famous Changing Of The Guards ceremony too!

Don’t just admire the Queen’s home from the outside though, during the Summer and selected days in Winter and Spring, when the Queen is not at home, you can go on a guided tour of the State Rooms and garden.

Love the Royals? Skip a visit to Churchill’s War Rooms and visit the Royal Mews, a working stables where the royal horses and carriages are kept, and The Queen’s Gallery which displays an array of artwork from the Royal Collection on a rotating basis.

Opening Times:

Changing Of The Guard – 10:40 am (for 11 am) daily during Summer. Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays Spring, Autumn, and Winter. (Weather Permitting)

The State Rooms 9:30 am to 7:00 pm (closes at 6:00 pm in September)

The Royal Mews 10.00 am to 4.00 pm (closes 5.00 pm March to November)

The Queen’s Gallery 10.00 am to 5.30 pm (opens 9.30 am in the summer)

You might be interested in: – Changing of the Guard & Buckingham Palace Tour – Buckingham Palace: The Queen’s Gallery Entrance Ticket – Buckingham Palace: The State Rooms Entrance Ticket – Buckingham Palace: The Royal Mews Entrance Ticket

Churchill’s War Rooms via St James’ Park

From Buckingham Palace, enjoy a stroll through St James’ Park and make your way to Churchill’s War Rooms, the labyrinth of corridors and rooms located below the streets of Westminster where history was made. As well as seeing where the Prime Minister and his war cabinet ran the government (and directed the war) during the bombing raids, you’ll be able to learn more about the life and legacy of Winston Churchill at the museum.

Visit Churchill’s War Rooms and immerse yourself in the rich history of World War II on this enriching and emotionally stirring tour of London Westminster with a knowledgeable guide

Admission: £21. Included in London Pass

Opening hours: 9.30am to 6.00pm (1 July-31 August: 9.30am to 7pm)

Big Ben, The Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey

Parliament Square is just a short walk from the Churchill War Rooms and contains the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben.

Travel Tip – Big Ben is undergoing major repair work and will be covered in scaffolding with the bell only chiming for special events and 24/7 until 2021 – Delay your trip if you want the iconic shot in front of Big Ben looking its best!

Westminster Palace (the site of the Houses of Parliament) was built in 1840 and is a truly impressive building – You can book a 90-minute guided tour to see inside the 1,000-year-old Westminster Hall with a visit to the House of Commons and the Lords Chambers whilst learning how parliament works.

Westminster Abbey (the church where William and Kate got married) is located next to the Houses of Parliament and has been the site of all of the royal coronations since the time of William the Conqueror. It is the final resting place of 17 monarchs including Henry V, Mary I (Mary Tudor), Elizabeth I, Mary Queen of Scots as well as notable historical figures Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, Charles Dickens, and Rudyard Kipling.

If you have the time and want to learn more about this historic Gothic church, guided tours are available.

Houses of Parliament £28 (cheaper if booked in advance)

Westminster Abbey £22. Included in London Pass. Tour costs an additional £5

Click here to book your Westminster Abbey entry tickets.

Cruise the River Thames

End your first day in London by cruising down the River Thames – There’s no better way to see the city as you cruise past Big Ben, the Tower of London, the London Eye, and Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre.

A range of cruises are available, get the basic sightseeing cruise if you’re on a tight budget, or splash out a bit with a Music Cruise by City Cruises where you can dance the night away as you pass by London’s most iconic sights. If that sounds a bit too strenuous, go on one of the more traditional dinner cruises – You can’t go wrong no matter which you choose.

I recommend: Westminster to Greenwich River Thames Cruise.

10 days in England: Day Two – London

The second day of our England itinerary takes us sightseeing along the river Thames, checking the major sights.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

  Rebuilt in the Baroque style after The Great Fire of London in 1666, St Paul’s Cathedral cannot just be admired from the outside. Pass through the historic doors and admire the view across London from the Stone and Golden galleries then, with your traveling partner, try out the Whispering Gallery where, due to the architecture, you can whisper on one side of the dome and be heard on the other. If you’re into architecture, stop to see the exhibition on Sir Christopher Wren, the architect of St Paul’s, and learn about the challenges he overcame with his unique design.

Admission: £18 including a guided tour. Included in London Pass

Opening hours: 8:30 am to 4:30 pm

Click here to book your fast-track tickets to St. Pauls’s Cathedral.

The Tower of London

This 900-year-old castle and fortress is most remembered for being a prison. Guarded by the Yeoman wardens (aka the Beefeaters, kitted out in their regal red and black uniforms emblazoned with ER), the tower is made up of 3 buildings; the Jewel House where the Crown Jewels are stored, the Royal Armories located in the White Tower, and the ‘Bloody Tower’, the prison where Anne Boleyn, Sir Walter Raleigh, the Two Princes, Lady Jane Grey, and even Guy Fawkes were all imprisoned.

Hear the history and stories from the Beefeaters on a guided tour as you see the ravens, the crown jewels, the Royal Mint. Also explore the bloody side with instruments from the torture chamber and Tower Green, the place where the prisoners were executed.

Admission: £26.80. Included in London Pass

Opening hours: 10.00 am to 5.30 pm

Click here to book your Tower of London and Crown Jewels Exhibition Ticket .

Tower Bridge

You can’t visit London and not have your photo taken in front of this iconic landmark! Walk across the bridge and then admire the view from the banks of the River Thames below.

If Tower Bridge has always fascinated you, go beyond admiring the view and visit the Tower Bridge Exhibition, as well as learning about the engineering of this historic bridge you’ll get to see the old engine rooms and can walk the glass walkway 44 meters above the River Thames.

Admission: £9.80. Included in London Pass

Click here to book your tickets to the Tower Bridge. 

Measuring in at 309.7 meters high, this 95-floor skyscraper towers above the city with views reaching out for 40 miles on fine days. Go see the city of London from a different angle at the two viewing platforms, one on the 69 th floor and one on the 72 nd floor (the highest viewing platform in London). Splash out if you can afford it and enjoy lunch, afternoon tea, or a romantic dinner at The Shard. Wondering if it’s worth it? Read about my Shard experience here.

Admission for The View from the Shard: £30. Included in London Pass

Opening hours: 10 am to 10 pm Thursday to Saturday, 10 am to 7 pm Sunday to Wednesday

Click here to book your tickets to The Shard. 

The Southbank

Make your way to the River and take a scenic stroll down the dynamic tree-lined South Bank, the heart of London’s cultural scene, passing some of the most iconic London sights on the way. This pedestrianized riverside pathway is lined with street food vendors, cafes, and pubs, fairground rides, and so much more. Pass by London Bridge, Southwark Bridge, the Tate Modern, Oxo Tower Wharf, Waterloo Bridge and so much more. If you’re good for time you might choose to stop off at Borough Market or the Tate Modern before making your way further round the river to the London Eye.

The London Eye

Keen for more aerial views of the city? Hop on one of the pods at the London Eye, England’s most popular paid attraction and the tallest wheel in Europe and enjoy the 360-degree view above Westminster. Pods have audio commentary so you know exactly what you’re looking down upon with views reaching as far as Windsor Castle (25 miles away!) on clear days. You can read about my London Eye experience here.

Click here to book your tickets to the London Eye. 

Admission: £27

Opening hours: dependent on the season, check online for details.

10 days in England: Day Three – London

Spend the day enjoying London’s finest museums. You won’t be able to see them all (unless you stick to Kensington and pop in to see the best bits of the Natural History Museum, the Victoria and Albert, and the Science Museum) so pick one or two to focus on based on your interests, and know that you’ll have to come back to London to cover all of the top museums!

The British Museum

One of the best museums in the whole of the UK, the British Museum displays over 2 million years of human history with arts and antiquities from around the world – Indeed, a visit to the British Museum can allow you to travel to all corners of the world without leaving London! See the Rosetta Stone, Egyptian Mummies, the Parthenon Marbles, Roman Mosaics, and so much more not forgetting the temporary exhibitions.

Admission: Free

Tate Modern

If modern and contemporary art is your thing, lose yourself in the massive Tate Modern gallery where you’ll not only find paintings but photography, film, performance, and live art exhibits too. Galleries are organized by movement I.e surrealism, minimalism, abstract art, pop-art, etc with works by Dali, Miro, Picasso, Matisse, Cezanne, Pollock, Warhol, and many others.

Opening hours: 10.00 am to 6.00 pm (closes at 10 pm on Friday and Saturday)

Natural History Museum

Beloved for its dinosaur exhibition, the Natural History Museum teaches you everything about planet Earth (and beyond) and how human’s evolved. Learn about earthquakes and get on the earthquake simulator to see how it feels to have the earth truly move, see chunks of moon rock, a dodo skeleton, the largest gold nugget in the world and so much more. The museum is divided into 4 zones: Green for birds, insects, fossils, and minerals. Blue for dinosaurs, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. Red for Earth, the planets, and the universe. Orange (only April-October) for the Wildlife Garden. Plan what areas to focus on before you go to make the most of your time!

Opening hours: 10.00 am to 5.50 pm

V&A Museum

The Victoria and Albert Museum, known affectionately as ‘The V&A’ is the place to go if you want to indulge in decorative arts and design. Its 7 miles of galleries contain ceramics, textiles, post-classical sculptures, glass, jewelry, furniture, and more. Highlights include Tipu’s Tiger, the earliest known photograph of London from approximately 1839, The Great Bed of Ware (mentioned in Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night), Raphael’s Cartoons (not cartoons as we know them but a series of tapestries commissioned by Pope Leo X) and more.

Opening hours: 10.00 am to 5.45 pm

Science Museum

Discover the history and technology of medicine, nuclear power, electricity, and transportation including the space age at this fascinating hands-on museum with a 3D IMAX cinema, an interactive flight simulator, and discovery motion theatre alongside all the exhibits. See the oldest surviving steam locomotive, the first jet engine, a full-scale model of the Beagle 2 Mars lander, a replica of Sputnik 1, the Apollo 11 flight plan, proto-computors and so much more.

Opening hours: 10.00 am to 6.00 pm

The West End

End your day of culture by heading to the West End to see a show. Enroute you can window shop at Oxford Street and Covent Gardens and get a selfie in Leicester Square, perhaps there will be time for a drink in Soho before or after the show too.

The West End is London’s equivalent of Broadway and is home to more than 40 theatres so there are plenty of shows to choose from including the long-running classics such as Phantom of the Opera (Her Majesty’s Theatre), Les Misérables (the Queen’s Theater), and Mousetrap (St Martin’s Theatre) plus comedy and an array of other shows and entertainment. The London Palladium is the most iconic and quintessential West End theatre whilst the London Coliseum is one of the largest theatres in London, no matter where you go or what you see, be sure to dress up!

10 days in England: Day Four – Bath

It’s time to leave the bright lights of London behind and head South-West to the historical city of Bath, the former home of  Jane Austen. Famed for its history, literature, art, and Georgian architecture, the UNESCO World Heritage city was founded in the 1 st century by the Romans who built a reservoir to control the natural thermal spring water, building the city around the baths from which Bath gets its name.

How To Get from London to Bath  

Train: Direct trains go from London Paddington to Bath Spa (just a few minutes walk from the city of Bath) approximately every 30 minutes.

Time: 1.5 hours

Cost: From £15.50

Bus/Coach: National Express has coaches departing every 90 minutes from 7.30 am until 11 pm from Victoria Coach Station to Bath Spa bus terminal (located next to the train station). Megabus also run a service from Victoria Coach Station to Bath.  

Time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Cost: From £5

You might be interested in: Bath: 1.5-Hour Walking Tour with Blue Badge Tourist Guide

The Roman Baths

Considered one of the greatest religious spas of the ancient world, allow yourself 2 hours to explore the Roman Baths which consist of the Roman Bath House, the Roman Temple, the Sacred Spring, and the museum. You’ll see the Great Bath, the saunas and plunge pools, even the changing rooms. There is an audio tour to help you understand what you’re seeing but during peak times a free guided tour takes place on the hour, every hour. Try the natural water from the spa water fountain (if you dare!) at the end of your visit.

Admission: £14.40-£19.80 depending on the time of year.

Opening hours: November-February: 9.30 am-6 pm. March-October 9 am-5 pm with selected late opening until 7 pm over Easter and 9 pm end June-August.

Located next to the Roman Baths, the 7th-century abbey towers above the city and is one of the finest and largest examples of Perpendicular Gothic architecture in the West Country.

Step through its historic doors to admire the interior with its stunning stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings (accessible when there are no services taking place), and be sure to climb the 212 steps to the top of the tower to admire the view across Bath whilst also getting to see the ringing chamber and bell chamber and getting to sit behind the clock face. If you want to get an in-depth understanding of the abbey, guided tours are available lasting 45 minutes.

Admission: Tower £8

Opening hours: Monday 9.30am-5.30pm, Tuesday-Friday 9am-5.30pm, Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday 1pm-2.30pm and 4.30pm-6pm

Afternoon Tea

You simply must stop to enjoy afternoon tea in Bath, there are numerous quaint and historic tea rooms around the city but Sally Lunn’s is a must if you can get in. This tearoom is located in the oldest house in Bath (circa 1483) and serves the famous ‘Sally Lunn Bun’ which is a semi-sweet bread roll though they also serve cakes, scones, and those quintessentially British cucumber sandwiches!

Royal Crescent

One of Bath’s most iconic landmarks, walk in the footsteps of Bath’s high society as you see the 30 terraced Georgian houses built in a 152-meter long sweeping crescent facing an attractive green. Though the cars spoil the scene somewhat, the Royal Crescent will likely look familiar to you if you’re a fan of period drama for it has been a film location for the 2008 film The Duchess and the ITV Drama Persuasion.

Optional Extra – Learn more about the Royal Crescent whilst seeing what these houses would have looked like inside during the 18th century with a visit to the Bath Crescent Museum.

The Jane Austen Centre

Learn all about the famous author Jane Austen and the time she spent in Bath at the Jane Austen Centre, a museum located in an original Georgian townhouse. Fans will know that Bath featured within several of her novels and played an important part in her life and her writing, here you can learn more about the life and works of Austen from experienced Regency-dressed characters.

Admission: From £11

Opening hours: 9.45am-5.30pm

10 days in England: Day Five – Salisbury and Stonehenge

Getting from bath to salisbury and stonehedge.

Train: Take the direct train from Bath Spa to Salisbury train station with South Western Railway or Great Western Railway and then jump on the hop-on-hop-off Stonehenge Tour Bus which leaves the station every 30-60 minutes calling at Salisbury Cathedral, Old Sarum, and Stonehenge.

Time: 1 hour (to Salisbury Train Station)

Cost: Train From £11, Stonehenge Tour Bus from £10

The order in which you see/do things will depend on your timed entrance to Stonehenge and whether you’re making your way independently to Salisbury or are part of an organized trip to Stonehenge.

One of the most iconic landmarks in England, Stonehenge is a mysterious place with its huge standing stones that measure 4 meters tall and 2 meters wide. Though the stones of this prehistoric monument can no longer be touched, and a walk around will be some distance away unless you buy a special ticket, its magical mysterious history will still rub off on you and you wonder what were they for, and how did they move them?!

At the nearby visitor center (a free shuttle bus moves visitors between the visitor center and the Stone Circle but you also have the option to walk) you can gain a lot of insight into the history and meaning of Stonehenge. Reconstructed Neolithic houses enable you to see how people lived 4,500 years ago when Stonehenge was being created and you can see the finds from archaeological digs in the area, finds including pottery, tools, jewelry, and human remains.

Admission: £17.50 when booking in advance – You will be given a 30-minute time slot in which to arrive so be sure you arrive in plenty of time.

Opening hours: 9.30 am to 7.00 pm  

Click here to buy your Stonehenge Admission Ticket.

Salisbury Cathedral

Whether you take an official tour to learn the history of this English Gothic cathedral or just pop in on your own, Salisbury Cathedral is well worth a visit! With beautiful cloisters and stained glass windows, its tower is Britain’s tallest spire and it’s possible to climb the 332 steps to look down on the city of Salisbury from above as part of a ‘Spire Tour’. Meanwhile, the Chapter House contains the Magna Carta – One of four original copies that remain in good condition dating from 1215.

Admission: Recommended donation £7, £13.50 Tower Tour

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday Main Cathedral 9 am-5 pm, Sunday Noon-4pm. Magna Carta and Tower are open at different times, check the website for details.

Salisbury wasn’t always located in its current location – prior to the 1300s, it was located here, uphill from modern-day Salisbury at Old Sarum. Originally an Iron Age hill fort, 2,000 years of history can be traced at this site with Roman, Norman, and Saxon activity. See the hill fort with the deep ditch that was originally the moat, castle ruins (the Medieval castle built by William the Conqueror in 1070), and the foundations of the original Salisbury Cathedral.

Admission: £6

Opening hours: 10am-6pm Summer, 10am-4pm Winter

10 days in England: Day Six – Oxford

How to get to oxford from bath.

Train: There is a regular train service with Great Western Railway from Bath Spa to Oxford via Didcot Parkway from 5.45 am through until 10.45 pm.

Time: 90 minutes

Cost: From £14.50

Bus: National Express has buses departing Bath Spa University to Oxford (Gloucester Green bus station in the center of the city) every 2 hours during peak hours.

Time: 4.5 hours

Cost: From £10

Known as the city of dreaming spires, Oxford is a beautiful historical university city that is compact meaning you can easily see all of the sights on foot. Admire the colleges as you walk in the footsteps of Oscar Wilde and C.S. Lewis, just watch out for the cyclists during term time!

I highly recommend: Oxford University and City Walking Tour with Alumni Guide .

Oxford Castle

Built in the 10th century, Oxford Castle became a prison from the 14th century and was a working prison right up until 1996! Today, visitors can take a guided tour, led by a character guide, to learn the history of the 1,000-year-old castle/prison complex with access to the crypt, parts of the prison (other parts have been turned into a hotel!), St George’s Tower (great city views), and the Motte (the big earth mount opposite the building).

Admission: £12.50

Opening hours: 10am-4.20pm

Christ Church College and  College Cathedral

The most famous college in Oxford and one of the grandest also featuring one of the most beautiful gardens, a look inside Christ Church College is a must! See some of the halls, the picture gallery, the cathedral, the inner courtyards, cloisters, and the gardens whilst learning the history of the college and about student life today. Lewis Carroll (real name Charles Dodgson) lived and worked here so you may note some things that inspired Alice in Wonderland as you wander around.

If you’re more of a Harry Potter fan, you aren’t imagining things when you see the dining hall for this was the inspiration for Hogwarts’ Great Hall and its entrance was used as the film set in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone when Professor McGonagall met the 1 st years.

Admission: £17 garden tour, £10 general admission. Free entrance to the college cathedral for services.

Opening hours: Monday-Friday only. No access July-August. Tickets are available 1 week in advance from the website .

Punting on the River Cherwell

When the weather is fine there’s nothing more quintessentially English than punting along the river passing the beautiful University buildings and grounds out into the Oxford countryside. Take a guided tour so you can enjoy the ride or grab a pole and do it yourself.

Admission: From £18 per hour do it yourself or £30 for 30 minutes chauffeured.

Opening hours: Mid March – Mid October

The Tower at the Church of St. Mary the Virgin

The spiritual heart of the oldest university in England, this simple yet historic church is visited and loved for the views it offers from its tower. Climb 127 steps to admire the view of the colleges and Radcliffe Camera – One of the best views in the city.

Admission: £5 for Tower

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 9.30 am-5 pm, Sunday noon-5pm (6 pm July and August)

Covered Market

The historic covered market has outstanding Victorian architecture dating back to the 1770s and is filled with indie shops, craft stalls, and food/drink stands. Be sure to stop in for a fresh fruit juice or a less healthy smoothie as you take a look around – Perfect if you need to duck out of the rain.

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 8am-5.30pm, Sunday 10am-4pm

The Radcliffe Camera

The most iconic building in Oxford, the beautiful, neoclassical, Radcliffe Camera is part of Oxford University and was built in 1737 to house the Radcliffe Science Library making it one of the world’s oldest libraries. There’s no camera here, the word ‘camera’ comes from Latin meaning ‘building’ or ‘vault’ therefore, this building is a reading room comprising 2 reading rooms (upper and lower) and a gallery. Bibliophiles can take a 90-minute guided tour inside.

Admission: £14

Opening hours: Selected times, tickets available 2 weeks before – Check website for details.

Bridge of Sighs aka Hertford Bridge

This covered bridge, reminiscent of the Bridge of Sighs in Venice, rises above New Lane joining the Old Quad and New Quad of Hertford College together. Sadly, unless you’re a student at Hertford College, you can’t cross the bridge but it’s an iconic piece of architecture well worth passing by.

The Sheldonian Theatre

This 350-year-old building with its masterpiece of a roof is the official ceremonial hall of the University of Oxford. It was the first major design completed by architect Sir Christopher Wren who also designed St Paul’s Cathedral in London. Impressive from the outside with its funny ‘Emporer Head’ sculptures, step inside to be truly astounded and admire both the painted ceiling and the 360-degree panoramic views from the Cupola.

Admission: £3.80 (£8 guided tour)

Opening hours: 10 am-4 pm unless in use by the University

The Eagle and Child Pub

Otherwise known as ‘The Bird and Baby’, end your day of sightseeing at one of London’s most famous pubs , a regular meeting place during the 1930s and 1940s of J.R.R Tolkien, C.S Lewis, and friends who together were nicknamed ‘The Inklings’. Whether you just want a pint or stay for food, step inside to see the memorabilia hanging on the walls but breathe in, it’s tiny! Who knows, maybe you’ll be inspired to pen your own fantasy novel!

Opening hours: Monday-Saturday 11 am-11 pm, Sunday noon-10.30pm

10 days in England: Day Eight – Stratford Upon Avon

How to Get from Oxford to Stratford Upon Avon

Train: There are 19 daily trains departing Oxford train station to Stratford Upon Avon, the fastest route going via Leamington Spa as there are no direct trains. An alternative route goes via Leamington Spa and Dorridge but it’s better to only change trains once if you have lots of luggage with you.

Cost: From £14

Coach: National Express has a direct, non-stop, service from Oxford to Stratford Upon Avon leaving daily at 11am – If that time works for you it’s the faster, easier, and cheaper option compared with taking the train.

Time: 70 minutes

This quaint medieval market town (often shortened to Stratford but not to be confused with the London district) is located along the banks of the River Avon and along with its iconic half-timber Tudor houses is famous for being the birthplace of William Shakespeare. The entire town is a living history to the life and times of Shakespeare, a must-visit destination for anyone interested in British history.

Shakespeare’s Birthplace

Visit the timber-framed Tudor house and gardens where William Shakespeare spent a good chunk of his life, being born and raised here alongside his siblings as well as living here for 5 years with his wife, Anne Hathaway until he was 23 years old. The house, now a fascinating museum, is full of exhibitions with costumed guides bringing 450 years of history to life plus resident actors performing Shakespeare Aloud in which you can ask them to perform parts from any play!

Admission: £17.50

Opening hours: Spring-Autumn 9am-5pm, Winter 10am-4pm

Anne Hathaway’s Cottage

This 600-year-old thatched farmhouse with garden is as sweet as a chocolate-box! Make the journey 1 mile outside of Stratford to Shottery to visit the childhood home of Anne Hathaway, Shakespeare’s wife as you learn more about their love story. Step inside to see personal effects and other items dating back to Anne’s childhood including the original oak Hathaway bed. Don’t miss out on the sculpture trail if it’s a fine day!

Admission: £11.25

Opening hours: Spring-Autumn 9am-5pm, Winter 10am-3.30pm

Shakespeare’s New Place

Located on the site of Shakespeare’s last home where he lived from 1579 (once he was an established playwright, it thought that he would have written The Tempest during this time) until his death in 1616, ‘New Place’ is a new exhibition center that opened in 2016. It houses rare artifacts from Shakespeare’s life and includes a beautiful garden containing artwork. The original home was sadly demolished in 1759 but the new build follows the footprint of the original home.

Opening hours:  Spring-Autumn 9am-5pm, Winter 10am-4pm

Optional Alternatives

Fascinated by the life and times of the Tudor’s but overdosed on Shakespeare? Skip Shakespeare’s New Place and/or Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and explore the life and times of the Tudor’s. Or, if that’s still too much history to keep your family happy, break your day with butterflies at the butterfly farm or indulge in mechanical art and design at the interactive MAD museum.

Tudor World – £6 – 10.30am-5.30pm

Stratford Butterfly Farm – £7.25 – 10am-5pm or 6pm

MAD Museum – £7.80 – 10am-5pm

Take a River Boat Trip

See Stratford-upon-Avon from a different vantage point as you sail/cruise/row/paddle down the picturesque River Avon – Pedal boats, canoes, motorboats, electric boats, and punts are all available to rent and there are also sightseeing tours with a barge tours that go through the town’s historic working lock plus a river cruiser tour.

  Admission: 45-minute Cruiser Tour: £6, 45 minute Barge Tour £6, a DIY boat trip from £7 per hour.

Watch One Of Shakespeare’s Plays

  End the day by watching one of Shakespeare’s plays performed by the RSC whether that’s Romeo and Juliet, Macbeth, Hamlet, or one of Shakespeare’s lesser-known plays. There are two theatres in Stratford-upon-Avon where the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) performs, The Royal Shakespeare Theatre and The Swan Theatre.

Admission: From £10

You can combine the sightseeing to Stratford Upon Avon with a visit to nearby Warwick Cast

How to get from Stratford Upon Avon to Warwick

Train: There’s a regular service from Stratford upon Avon to Warwick Parkway train station with trains departing roughly every half an hour from 6 am – 11pm. Some trains are direct, others require you to change at Dorridge which increases the journey time by a further 30 minutes.

Time: 25-30 minutes

Cost: From £7

Warwick Castle

This castle truly brings history to life for the whole family. Originally built as a wooden motte and bailey fort in 1068 for William the Conqueror, the stone castle seen today dates back to the 1100s with its conversion to a country house taking place in the 1700s. Enjoy numerous exhibitions and a live-action walk-through with actors and special effects along with the largest trebuchet in the world and birds of prey display. You can also visit the dungeons if you purchase an extended ticket.

Admission: From £21

Opening hours: 10 am-4 pm or 5 pm depending on the season. Some special openings until 9 pm, check website for details.

Click here to buy your Warwick castle entrance tickets.

Always wanted to stay in a castle? You can book the luxury Tower Suites in the 14 th century Caesar’s Tower. Cheaper options include a stay at the castle’s Woodland Lodges or Medieval Glamping!

The Mill Garden

Located beneath Warwick Castle, this delightful cottage garden with woodland area provides visitors with a tranquil oasis that covers half an acre. Follow the meandering footpaths by the river Avon and photograph the views of the castle, the ruined medieval bridge, Castle Millpond, and Victorian summer house.

Admission: £2.50

Opening hours: 9 am-6 pm April-October only

10 Days in England: Day 9 – York 

How to get from warwick to york.

Train: To get from Warwick Parkway station to York, there is a minimum of 2 changes with passengers needing to not just change trains but also change stations getting from Birmingham Moor Street station to Birmingham New Street station whether on foot, by bus, or by taxi for the onward journey to York.

Time: 3.5 hours

Cost: From 21.50

Bus: National Express work in collaboration with the coach company the Yorkshire Coastliner with a daily service departing Warwick at 9.30 am arriving into York at 4.30 pm (dependent on traffic). You must change coaches (and companies) at Leeds coach station where there is a 45 minute wait time.

Time: 7 hours

A visit to York, with its quaint cobbled backstreets, gives you a glimpse into the best of British history with its Roman, Anglo Saxon, Viking, Norman, Tudor, and Victorian influences all leaving their mark on this fabulous city plus there are many interesting things to do in York. 

I recommend: The York City Pass: Access 20 Attractions for One Great Price .

York Minster Cathedral

Officially known as the Cathedral and Metropolitical Church of St Peter in York, this is one of the largest cathedrals not just in England but in all of Northern Europe. An icon of the city, a church has stood on this site since 627 but the stunningly ornate Gothic building seen today dates from 1291 and took 60 years to complete. Take a free 1 hour guided tour to learn the history of the cathedral whilst visiting the undercroft and seeing the Great East Window which has the largest expanse of stained glass in the UK. An optional extra is a climb up the 275 tower steps to admire the panoramic views across the city and surrounding countryside.

Admission: Church: £11 Interior + Tower: £16

Opening Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-4.30pm, Sunday 12.30pm-3pm

The Shambles

Like a real-life Diagon Alley (and what is thought to have inspired J.K. Rowling) The Shambles is the most photographed street in the city filled with quaint shops located within 14 th century overhanging timber-framed buildings with even tinier alleys (called snickways!) veering off of it. The perfect place to wander, you’ll come across 3 Harry Potter shops, a year-round Christmas shop, Viking shops, as well as the famous ‘The Shop That Must Not Be Named’.

Betty’s Tea Rooms

The most famous tea rooms in York, Betty’s is a must-visit (despite it being a busy tourist attraction now) so that you can try their legendary Fat Rascal Scones. These scones aren’t the usual kind, they’re crunchy on the outside and chock full of calories but should be tried at least once but you can enjoy a classic afternoon tea experience if you prefer.

Opening Hours: 9 am-9 pm

Jorvik Centre

End your first day in York with a journey beneath street level to discover what life was like in York when it was a Viking village. A mix of archaeological finds displayed in an exhibition center and an indoor theme park ride (you travel in a cart) through a lifelike Viking village complete with authentic smells, the Jorvik Centre really brings Viking history to life for the whole family.

Admission: £11

Opening Hours: 10am-5pm (4pm in Winter)

10 days in England – Day Ten – York to London

Clifford’s tower.

The last part of York Castle that still remains, climb to the top of this 13th-century tower (used as a prison and a Royal mint) and admire the panoramic view of York including the view of York Minster.

Tip – Best visited in Spring when the tower is surrounded by daffodils.

Admission: £5.40

Opening Hours: 10 am-6 pm

York Castle Museum

Don’t judge a museum by its name! Next door to Clifford’s Tower (on the site of the old castle) you’ll find the York Castle Museum which contains a weird yet wonderful mixture of things to see and do including the cells of the old York prison, a replica Victorian street, and a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions including Toy Stories which has a 100 year old carousel which is sure to take you back to your childhood, The Sixties exhibition with iconic objects of the era, and a 1914 exhibition showing you how the world changed forever.

Admission: £12

Opening Hours: 9.30 am-5 pm

Chocolate Museum

Skip lunch and head to The York Chocolate Story, a chocolate museum that takes you on a 90 minute guided tour to unwrap the history of some of Britain’s famous confectionery companies for Rowntree’s, Terry’s and Craven’s were all started in York. With chocolate samples to taste in just about every room and a chocolate lollipop to make before you leave, you’ll learn that Terry’s created a chocolate lemon and a chocolate apple before landing upon that staple of Christmas, the chocolate orange and so much more.

Admission: £12.95

Opening Hours: 10 am-4 pm

National Railway Museum

Across the river, from the Yorkshire Museum, you’ll find the largest railway museum in the world. York’s National Railway Museum contains 100 trains on display so if you’re a train buff, you might want to skip a couple of the previous museums and spend more of your day here. Highlights include The Mallard; the world’s fastest steam locomotive, Queen Victoria’s Royal Train including her favorite carriage, the only Japanese bullet train on display outside of Japan and an original Eurostar train.

Admission: Free!

Now it is time to head back to London for your flight home.

How to get from York to London

Train: Trains depart approximately every 15 minutes from York to London King’s Cross station (direct) with an average of 30 trains per day making your return journey to London hassle-free. Book in advance to get the best prices on this 174-mile journey.

Time:  2 hours

Bus: National Express coaches depart York for London Victoria Coach Station every 1-2 hours throughout the peak daytime hours with more limited service at night. Some coaches are direct making for a hassle free journey, others require you to change at Leeds Coach Station with a 30-minute change over time.

Time: 6 hours

Cost: From £7.50

How to Get to and from Central London to The Airport

From heathrow airport.

The largest airport in the UK, Heathrow is located 18.5 miles from the city of London and covers the majority of long haul flights plus scheduled European flights. It is the hub for British Airways, Emirates, Lufthansa, American Airlines, and Virgin Atlantic. With 5 terminals, pay attention to which terminal you’ll be arriving in to help plan your onward journey into the city center.

Heathrow Express Train

The fastest way to get from the airport to central London, the Heathrow Express train departs for London Paddington every 15 minutes from terminals 2-3, and 5 with the first train at 5 am (6 am on Sundays) until 11.30 pm. If arriving into terminal 4, use the free shuttle train to transfer between terminals. Don’t worry about terminal 1 – It closed in 2015!

Time: 15 minutes

Price: From £16.50 when booked online in advance

Cash Saving Tip! The TfL Rail service (formerly known as the Heathrow Connect) also takes passengers to London Paddington, the journey takes longer (35minutes) due to stopping at other London stations including Ealing Broadway and Southall but the ticket price is cheaper.

Underground Train

Heathrow Airport is connected to the London Underground at terminals 2-3, 4, and 5 with the Piccadilly line taking passengers directly to central London. It is possible to use Oyster and travel cards for this journey to save money on a single cash fare. Trains run every 10 minutes from approximately 5 am until 11.30 pm with the exception of Friday and Saturday when the underground operates a 24-hour service. Note – There is no night train service to terminal 4, leave the underground train at terminals 2-3 and take the free shuttle to terminal 4.

Time: 50 minutes

Price: £6.00 single cash fare

National Express runs regular services from Heathrow Airport (terminals 2-3, 4, and 5 ) to London Victoria coach station. Coach services run every 30 minutes during peak hours with the first coach departing at approximately 3 am and the last at midnight.

Time: 35 minutes

Price: From £5

A classic black cab can be hailed from outside each of Heathrow’s terminals. A surcharge of £2.80 is added for fares starting from Heathrow airport but there is no extra charge for luggage.

Time: 30-60 minutes

Price: £48-£90

From Gatwick Airport

Located 29.5 miles South of London city center, Gatwick airport is the UK’s second busiest airport and handles international long haul flights as well as many European charter flights. It’s a hub for Easyjet, Thomas Cook, and TUI along with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.  

Gatwick Express Train

The Gatwick Express train is the fastest option for reaching central London with non-stop trains departing the South Terminal (take the free shuttle train from North to South terminal if needed) to London Victoria train station every 15 minutes during peak hours. The first train departs at 5.40 am and the last train departing shortly after 11 pm.

Time: 30 minutes

National Rail Trains

Regular trains also depart the South Terminal. Thameslink runs services from Gatwick airport to London Bridge, Blackfriars, Farringdon, and St Pancras International whilst Southern Trains go to London Victoria train station via Clapham Junction and East Croydon.

Time: 30-45 minutes

Cost: From £8

National Express has regular services departing from both the North and South Terminals for London Victoria coach station with stops along the way. Coaches run 24/7 every 20-60 minutes.

Time: 1.5-2 hours

Alternative Option – On a tight budget and staying in West London? Check out easyBus with fares from as little as £2 each way going to Chelsea.

Luton Airport

Located 34 miles from London city, Luton Airport handles a lot of low-cost airline flights from around Europe being a hub for Ryanair and Wizzair. It does not have a train station connected to the airport, therefore it’s often easier to get the coach into London.

Up to 4 coaches depart Luton airport every hour with two routes, A1 goes to Victoria coach station whilst A2 goes to Paddington. Both routes have several stops on the way.

A shuttle bus (price included in the train ticket price when you select LUA/Luton Airport as your starting point rather than Luton Airport Parkway) takes passengers from Luton Airport to Luton Airport Parkway train station every 10 minutes during peak times with limited night trains. Regular train services run to London Bridge, Blackfriars, City Thameslink, Farrington, and London St Pancras.

Time: 40 minutes

Cost: £13-£18

Stansted Airport

Located 42 miles North East of London, the Stansted airport is a hub for Easyjet, Jet2, Ryanair, Tui, and Thomas Cook primarily serving European destinations with either holiday charter flights or budget flights. It has a train station on-site giving travelers easy access to London.

Stansted Express Train

The fastest way to get into London, the Stansted Express Train departs every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during the night for London Liverpool Street station with some trains stopping at Tottenham Hale underground station on the way to give passengers access to the Victoria underground line. The first train departs Stansted at 5.30 am and the last at 00.30.

Time: 47 minutes

On a budget? Compare the price of the regular Greater Angular train service with the Stansted Express – Both trains go to London Liverpool Street station in the same amount of time.

National Express coaches run 4 different services to central London every 30-60 minutes. Service A6 calls at Baker Street, Paddington, Marble Arch, and Portman Square. Service A7 goes to Victoria Coach Station via Whitechapel, Southwark, Waterloo, and Victoria Train Station. Service A8 goes to King Cross via Shoreditch, Liverpool Street, and Farringdon. Service A9 goes to London Stratford.

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The Ultimate 10-Day England Itinerary: 3 Perfect Routes

Last Updated on January 3, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect England itinerary can get a bit overwhelming, especially when you’re looking at exploring the country outside of the capital. There is so much to see and do in England that you can be forgiven if you feel slightly dazed when trying to figure out how to pack everything into a short period of time. However, if you’re planning to spend 10 days in England, there are tons of options available for you that can take you all over the country.

Far too many visitors to England set their sites only on London and fail to realise all that lies elsewhere in the country, from beautiful beaches to historic towns to stunning natural vistas — England has it all.

So if you’re interested in mapping out the perfect 10-day itinerary you’ve come to the right place. We’ve lived in and travelled around England extensively and have a lot of knowledge about where to go and how long to spend in each amazing destination in this beautiful country.

Table of Contents

Getting To & Around England

The road and rail systems in England are well-developed, but it can still take some planning to figure out how you want to get around.

First and foremost, you need to figure out which airport or city you will be flying into. If you’re planning on including London on your trip to England (or even if you’re not), then it’s probably easiest to fly into the capital, however, it is worth noting that there are a total of six international airports that serve the greater London area – these include Heathrow, Gatwick, Luton, Stansted, London City and Southend.

If you are coming from any further than continental Europe, then it is likely you will only fly into Heathrow or Gatwick, located to the southeast and south of Central London respectively. Getting to central London from any of the area’s main airports is straightforward and easy, as there are many different options available.

Once you’ve figured out your plan to get to England, you need to find out how you plan to get around. As I mentioned earlier, the public transit system in the vast majority of England is incredibly well-developed and easy to navigate.

As a general rule, if you’re planning on spending a good amount of time in cities, you can plan to rely solely on the public transport system and your own two feet to get around. This holds especially true for London, but can apply to most major metropolitan areas in England.

When you venture outside of the capital or other cities to enjoy the countryside and rolling hills of England, is when you may want to consider renting a car. While you don’t really need a car in the cities, having your own vehicle when exploring national parks or smaller villages is generally preferable as it can give you an infinite more amount of flexibility and control over your itinerary.

Driving in England is safe and easy, as the roads are in fantastic condition and people are generally very courteous drivers.

Keep in mind for those coming from abroad that they do drive on the left-hand side of the road in England and while this may seem daunting for those who are not used to it, it takes surprisingly little time to get the hang of it — especially if there is other traffic on the road!

If you’re planning on hiring a car while in England, we recommend browsing options here to compare prices across many major car hire companies, ensuring that you get a great deal for your rental car.

If you don’t want to rent a car for your England road trip itinerary or just plan to get one for a couple of days but not for the entirety of your trip, then you’ll likely be wondering what the best way to get between cities is in England.

The rail network is going to be the most comfortable and efficient way to travel between English destinations and the system is extensive and incredibly easy to use. However, trains can be quite expensive in England if not booked far enough in advance. To avoid overpaying on a train ticket, we suggest using Omio to book your journeys well in advance.

If you want to save some money during your trip to England, then the bus is your best bet. Coaches in England are frequent and extensive and can cost a fraction of the same route on the train, however, they are not as comfortable and can be a fair bit slower depending on the route. Again, you can book coach routes online here.

Finally, consider buying a travel insurance policy from a provider like Heymondo for coverage for medical expenses & trip interruption while travelling.

London and Southwest Itinerary

This first itinerary for England has you exploring London and some of the most vibrant regions and cities to the west and along the coast. Though this itinerary can be done by public transport, it would be best done if you rented a car on the fourth day when leaving London.

Days 1-3: London

The best place to begin any trip to England is in its historic and vibrant capital city, London. As one of the largest cities in Europe, London is packed in the brim with cool and interesting things to see and do and there is no way that you will be able to pack it all into a mere three days , so it’s best not even to try.

Instead, concentrate your first day on the sites of central London, including Trafalgar Square, the National Gallery, Green Park, the Palaces of Westminster, Big Ben and Westminster Abbey. Take a walking tour if you want to get your bearings and get some historical context for all the sites you’re seeing.

On your second day, visit the Tower of London, gaze in awe at the Tower Bridge, walk across the ultra-modern Millennium Bridge to the Tate Modern and visit St Paul’s Cathedral and Borough Market.

And on your third day in London, visit the incredible British Museum (the Egyptian exhibit is particularly fascinating if you ask me!), before browsing the shops on Oxford Street and in Covent Garden before wandering through the eclectic and trendy SoHo neighbourhood.

For visitors who plan to visit a lot of paid attractions, buying a London Go City Pass will save you money on entrance fees.

If you’re not interested in seeing more of the city, you could opt for a day trip to countless places including Windsor Castle, Oxford, Cambridge , Bath, the Seven Sisters or even to York. You can visit these places independently via coach or train or take a day tour if you’d prefer a guide.

Though three days in London won’t really allow you to venture past the city centre and to see anything much past the main tourist sites, it can still give you an excellent feel for the city (plus plenty of this to visit when you inevitably return!)

Where to Stay in London

Hotel Edward – A great mid-range option in Paddington, west London, this is a great place to stay if you want to be situated close to central London. They have countless great rooms available.

Sanderson Hotel – A hip luxury option in SoHo, this hotel is located only a quick dash away from Oxford Street. They have countless plush rooms on offer and a number of other amenities including a restaurant/bar, gym, spa and many others.

Astor Hyde Park Hostel – This hip hostel is perfect for budget and solo travellers in London. Located centrally close to Hyde Park, it is well situated to explore a lot of London’s top attractions, has fantastic common areas, and offers both dorm and private rooms.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more London hotels!

Days 4-5: Bristol

From London, it’s time to head west to the trendy city of Bristol. This city is often overlooked by tourists and it really is a shame — it really has so much to offer. Though you can easily visit Bristol as a day trip from London, it is worth spending a night here, especially because you can spend your first day exploring all of the amazing sites on the way to the city.

On your way to Bristol, make sure to make a number of stop-offs and detours in order to really pack a lot of the highlights of West England into a short period of time.

A short detour from the motorway to Bristol will lead you to the iconic neolithic site of Stonehenge and a bit further afield, you can visit Salisbury with its famous cathedral.

And just a bit before you hit Bristol proper, make sure to spend a good amount of time exploring the beautiful city of Bath . This historic spa town has been an important settlement since Roman times and there are lots of cool things to see and do here.

Once in Bristol, there are lots of things to see and do in order to really get to know the city, but you can pack in into one day easily, you can take a guided tour or go about independently.

Learn about Bristol’s history at the fantastic M Shed museum or learn more about its maritime history at Brunel’s SS Great Britain museum.

If you’re interested in street art, you will be delighted to hear that the famous artist Banksy got his start in Bristol and it has a thriving arts scene. Bristol also has a wonderful food and craft beer scene and it can be enjoyed while exploring the revitalised area of Wapping Wharf.

Where to Stay in Bristol

Victoria Square Hotel Clifton Village – A plush boutique hotel located in Bristol’s lush Clifton suburb, this is a great place to stay if you’re looking for a mid-range option in the city. They have a range of rooms available and a hearty breakfast included in the nightly price.

The Bristol Hotel – The ideal luxury hotel in Bristol, this place is located within easy walking distance of the city’s top attractions and they have a number of clean comfortable and chic rooms on offer.

The Full Moon Backpackers – An ideal option for those solo and budget travellers amongst us, this hostel is a great choice in Bristol. They have a number of dorms and private rooms available, fantastic common areas and a fantastic laid-back vibe, perfect for exploring Bristol!

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Bristol hotels!

Days 6-8: Cornwall

On your sixth day of this itinerary, it’s time to drive even further southwest to one of the most beautiful and sunny places in England – Cornwall!

The southwestermost region of the country, Cornwall has long been a favourite holiday destination for locals but foreign tourists rarely venture this way, and it’s incredibly hard to see why — there is so much see and do!

Cornwall is most famous for its beaches, but there is a lot more to it as well. If you’re a nature lover, there are countless walks to go on. If you want to try your hand at surfing, make sure to hit the waves in Newquay, the capital of the sport in England! History buffs will delight in the castles and ruins that dot the region as well.

One of the most famous castles is St Michael’s Mount, just outside of Penzance, which is situated on its own island accessible by a causeway that appears as low tide. If you’re a fan of Arthurian legend, then make sure to visit the dramatic ruins of Tintagel, rumoured to be the birthplace of this legendary British ruler.

Spending two or three days in Cornwall is enough to really see a lot of the region and get a good feel four it, but there is always more to see if you spend more time!

Where to Stay in Cornwall

Palma Guest House – Situated in the heart of St Ives, this is an excellent place to base yourself in Cornwall. They have a number of comfortable rooms available and are located within easy walking distance of all this artsy town has to offer!

Selkies NQY   – Located in Newquay just a few hundred metres from the beach, this is a fantastic luxury option for those visiting Cornwall. Great for a romantic couples getaway, they have a number of luxe rooms available.

Lifeboat Inn – Situated on the bay in the lovely artist’s town of St Ives, this is a great place to stay for couples or families alike. They have a number of spacious rooms available and an option to include breakfast in the room rate.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other places to stay in Cornwall!

Days 9-10: Brighton

And finally on this 10-day southwestern England route, round out your time in the lovely coastal city of Brighton ! Located due south of London, Brighton is about a five-hour drive from Cornwall, but we recommend taking an entire day on the journey as there are so many incredible stops along the way .

Take the time to enjoy such places like Dartmoor National Park in Devon, the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, the beautiful seaside city of Bournemouth, the historic port city of Portsmouth or even the lovely New Forest in Hampshire before arriving in Brighton.

Once in Brighton, take the time to explore the city centre and the lovely, albeit rocky, beach. Of course, no trip to Brighton would be complete without enjoying yourselves at the iconic Brighton Pier.

If you want to get a bit more active and are not interested in exploring the city much, then the iconic walk along the Seven Sisters cliffs is easily accessible from Brighton. This is one of the most beautiful day hikes in the UK and will take you along the stunning rim of the famous white cliffs of this region of England.

Conveniently, Brighton is located only about a thirty- to forty-minute train ride from Gatwick Airport and other London area airports are easy to access from the city as well, so it makes for a perfect place to end your trip to England.

Where to Stay in Brighton

Artist Residence, Brighton – This quaint boutique hotel is perfect for those looking for something a bit more hip and trendy while staying in Brighton. They have a number of great rooms available, a great location and fantastic amenities including great common areas and a tapas restaurant on site.

Seadragon Backpackers – A great backpackers hostel perfect for budget travellers, they are well-located and have both dorm and private rooms available. They have great common areas and a central location perfect for exploring the best of what Brighton has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Brighton hotels!

London and North England Itinerary

If you’re interested in visiting London and then heading up north during your ten days in England, then this is the perfect itinerary for you. Exploring the historic cities and natural areas of the North, you’re sure to enjoy this route through England.

Again, this is another itinerary where it may prove helpful to have a car for some of it, especially for the bit through the Lake District National Park . If you want to save some money, consider renting a car for a few days from York before continuing on an England by train itinerary.

Spend your first three days of this route in the capital of London, following the same daily activities as mentioned in the Southwest England route above.

Days 4-5: York

From London, hop on a train or hire a car and drive north to the lovely walled city of York. If you do happen to drive (and it is recommended!), then make sure to spend the day stopping off at all of the incredible sites along the way and enjoying the gorgeous English countryside.

Some of these include the lovely university city of Cambridge , the historic city of Worcester, Warwick Castle, Robin Hood’s home of Nottingham or even the incredible Peak District National Park in Derbyshire in central England. You could, perhaps, even make a stop in Oxford or at the incredible Blenheim Palace. Or you could detour to Stratford-upon-Avon – the hometown of Shakespeare!

On the next day, plan to spend it exploring the city. You can see a lot of York in one day and some of the highlights include walking along the city walls, exploring the incredible York Minster, taking in the ruins of St Mary’s Abbey in the Museum Gardens, wandering along The Shambles and learning about the city’s history at the York Castle Museum.

If you’d rather get out into nature, then explore more of rural Yorkshire with a trip to the North York Moors National Park or the Yorkshire Dales National Park — these parks are perfect for nature lovers and Bronte fans alike!

Where to Stay in York

The Queens Hotel – A great boutique option, this place is centrally located, has a number of comfortable rooms on offer and a great and hearty full breakfast is available at an additional cost.

The Grand, York – This is the place to stay in York if you want to be in the lap of luxury during your time in the northern city. They have many plush rooms to choose from, countless luxurious amenities, and a great location for easy sightseeing.

Astor York – An excellent, highly-rated hostel in York, this place is perfect for budget backpackers and solo travellers. They have a range of both private rooms and dorm beds available and are located within ten minutes of York’s historic centre.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more York hotels!

Days 6-7: Lake District

If you didn’t get out and enjoy the natural splendours of Yorkshire, it’s time to do so now in one of England’s most famous national parks — the Lake District. Located in Cumbria, this beautiful area is filled with incredible lakes, mountains and charming villages.

You can spend your time here going on countless walks — there are walks for all skill and fitness levels. There are also countless charming and historic villages to explore, classic pubs to warm up in, and just some absolutely beautiful scenery to enjoy.

Even if you’re not much of an outdoor lover, there s something for everyone in the Lake District and it is well worth taking the time to head out here before heading down to your final destination on this 10-day route through England.

Where to Stay in the Lake District

The Cavendish Arms – A cosy, mid-range option in the Lake District is this historic pub, located in the lovely village of Cartmel. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available and a great breakfast available to enjoy each morning.

Embleton Spa Hotel – If you are after a luxury stay in the Lake District, then this is the perfect choice for you. Located in an 18th-century farmhouse in the beautiful countryside, they have a number of plush rooms available, private apartments, and countless amenities to make your stay a great one.

Kendal Hostel – A great option if you’re travelling on a tight budget or solo, this hostel is one of the best-rated in the Lake District. Situated in a historic Georgian townhouse in the town of Kendal, they have a range of dorm and private rooms available and good self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Lake District hotels!

Days 8-10: Liverpool

And finally on the North England route, end your trip in the historic, vibrant and wonderful city of Liverpool .

Perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of a little-known band called The Beatles, there are plenty of Fab Four-centric sites to see in this city, however, there is so much more in this historic city.

Liverpool has seen a bit of a resurgence in recent years, especially around the newly refurbished Royal Albert Dock which is packed full of trendy restaurants and shops.

You can also learn about Liverpool’s seafaring history as a port city at the Merseyside Maritime Museum. Also worth a visit is the harrowing International Slavery Museum.

Football fans will rejoice in the chance to tour Anfield Stadium , the home to Liverpool FC and Fab Four fans are sure to enjoy the Beatles Story or even a Beatles Tour.

You can even take the time to take a day trip to the nearby city of Manchester if you want to see more Northern English cities.

Where to Stay in Liverpool

The Dolby Hotel – A good option for mid-range travellers. this hotel has a great location overlooking the River Mersey. Located within easy walking distance of the top sites of the city, they have a number of rooms to choose from and breakfast included in the price.

Titanic Hotel Liverpool – If you want a luxurious stay in Liverpool, then look no further than this swanky hotel. Situated a stone’s throw from the top attractions in the city, they have countless amenities and wonderful, comfortable rooms available.

YHA Liverpool Albert Dock – A fantastic backpacker’s hostel, this is the perfect choice for solo and budget travellers. It is located in the centre of the city close to the top attractions and sites, they have both dorm beds and private rooms available and great common areas.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Liverpool .

Northern England Itinerary

If you’ve been to London already and would rather spend your ten days in England somewhere outside of the capital, then this is a great route for you. Still beginning and ending in London, this route is great for those who are planning a trip to the other parts of England and don’t want to concentrate on the capital city.

Day 1: London

Begin your itinerary in London and take a day to explore an area of the city that you haven’t had the chance to yet — there is always something to see and do in London. Take in the street art in Shoreditch, stuff your face at Broadway Market if it’s a Saturday or get lost in the expansive Kew Gardens or Richmond Park .

There are far too many things to do in London that it’s worth spending at least a day in the city even if you’ve visited before.

Days 2-3: York

From London, it’s time to head to York. Follow the suggestions in the itinerary above for the ideas for how to spend your time in York.

Days 4-5: Lake District National Park

From York, head out into the great wide open and enjoy the lovely scenery and villages of the Lake District National Park for two full days.

Days 6-8: Liverpool

And from the Lake District, head to historic Liverpool and enjoy all of the fun things there are to see and do in this historic city.

Days 9-10: Cotswolds

On your final two days, it’s time to head back down south to explore an incredibly charming area of England within easy reach of London – the Cotswolds .

This region, located to the northwest of London, is famed for its quintessentially English towns with thatch-roofed homes and historic pubs. It is the perfect place to end your England itinerary.

Take the time to explore quaint villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, Painswick, Burford, Chipping Campden and countless others. These are some of the most beautiful towns in all of England and are sure to transport you back in time.

If you want to get out into nature, then make sure to check out the Cotswolds AONB (area of outstanding natural beauty) which is full of walking trails and lovely, bucolic vistas.

If you’re looking for a quaint and quiet place to round out this epic route through England, you seriously cannot go wrong with spending some time in the Cotswolds before flying home from London.

Where to Stay in the Cotswolds

The Lamb Inn – This charming pub located in the village of Bourton-on-the-Water is the perfect place to rest your head in the Cotswolds. Oozing with charm, they have a range of comfortable and clean rooms available and a great pub downstairs to grab a pint a great bite to eat.

The Fleece – Located in the village of Witney not too far from Oxford, this is a great boutique hotel to stay at in the Cotswolds. T hey have a range of cosy and comfortable rooms available and a fantastic breakfast cooked each morning.

The Old Stocks Inn – Situated in the charming village of Stow-on-the-Wold, this lovely inn is the perfect place to stay if you’re on the hunt for a luxury stay in the Cotswolds. They have a number of beautiful rooms to choose from and lots of other amenities to make your stay fantastic.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cotswolds hotels!

There are so many options of places to visit and things to see during your 10 days in England but, hopefully, these three great routes are able to help you plan the trip of your dreams! From historic cities, gorgeous natural scenery, inviting pubs and a wonderful coastline, England has so much to offer visitors — so make sure to see more than just London!

Are you planning a trip to England? Have you visited before? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi I am planning to ciné to the uk Dec/Jan 20 days

My plan so far is London 4 days 29/12-2/1. Then Bath as a base to tour the south. Can you recommend how many days in the south based at Bath then where in the North or ? I was planning on hiring a car in Bath or London.

Also open to any addition suggestions like quick visit to Ireland or Scotland if you feel it is with timeframe.

Thank you A

Hello Maggie, enjoyed your article on visiting England. Our family is planning to visit England from July 9 through July 20. We are from Boston, MA. Wanted your recommendation as we would also like to visit Scotland. How should I plan my iteneray.

Thank you, Khuzema Safri (Khuz).

Thanks for your comment! If you want to visit Scotland, you may find this article helpful in planning your trip: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/london-scotland-ireland-itinerary/

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3 perfect England itineraries for every type of traveler

May 12, 2022 • 10 min read

London is the ideal starting point for exploring England by rail or road © Franckreporter / Getty Images

Want to see as much of England as possible on your trip but don’t know where to start? Here are three of our best 7-10 day itineraries to give you some inspiration.

Each of these classic trips will give you a different insight into this green and pleasant land. But the one thing they have in common is you’ll leave with a deep appreciation of everything that makes England special: a contrast of wild and idyllic landscapes, fascinating history and captivating urban destinations.

Essential England – a 10-day itinerary

A week and a half is long enough to tick off many of England’s classic highlights. This tour takes in a dozen of the nation's top sights, from London to the Lakes.

Day 1: Tour the streets of the capital

What better way to kickstart your perfect England itinerary than starting with a full day in the nation's vibrant capital, London ? If you only have one day to explore, simply set out on foot to admire such world-famous sights as Buckingham Palace , Tower Bridge , Trafalgar Square and more.

How to get from London to Winchester: Drive or take the train from London to Winchester; direct trains take an hour and run from Waterloo Station.

Day 2: Captivating cathedral cities

Moving southwest, you can explore one or both of the grand cathedral cities of Winchester and Salisbury . Winchester is slightly closer to London and is a history-lover’s dream with long connections to King Arthur, Sir Walter Raleigh and Alfred the Great. Another 45 minutes by road will take you to Salisbury Cathedral and one of only four surviving copies of the Magna Carta.

Go from Winchester to Bath: A hire car will open up some interesting side-trips en route to Bath. Don’t leave the area before making a detour to see the iconic megaliths of Stonehenge .

Day 3: A literary day in Bath

A short hop northwest leads to the beautiful city of Bath , for Roman history and fabulous Georgian architecture. For literature fans, the city has many connections to Jane Austen and, more recently, it formed the stage for Netflix’s smash hit TV series Bridgerton . 

Go from Bath to Oxford: The quickest route to Oxford is by train, connecting at Didcot Parkway. However, if you have a car and can afford a bit more time on the road, traveling by road has its benefits. You’ll be able to cruise across the classic English countryside of the Cotswolds with plenty of scenic pit stops on the way.

Day 5: Study the beauty of Oxford

An hour and a half trip by road or train will deliver you to that ancient seat of learning, Oxford . After you take in the sights and sounds of the famous university, find an idyllic English pub to cozy up in with a classic English novel.

For an optional extra day, just an hour’s drive away from Oxford is Stratford-upon-Avon . The official home of everything Shakespeare, Stratford is a pilgrimage destination for fans of the Bard and there are plenty of must-sees for anyone with an interest.

Go from Oxford to the Lake District: Circling back to London, you can pick up a direct train from Euston station that will get you to Oxenholme in the Lake District in under three hours. Alternatively, driving from Oxford to the Lakes will take you four hours.

Day 6 & 7: Find an outdoor paradise in the Lake District

Deservedly the most popular national park in the UK, the Lake District is a dream for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of walking routes, swimming spots and cycling trails; stay the night and you can enjoy some of the country’s best stargazing.

Go from the Lake District to York: Navigate around the fringes of Yorkshire Dales National Park to York. Driving is the quickest route – otherwise expect a three-hour train journey with multiple changes available.

Day 8: Discover the delights of York

History buffs will love York for its Viking remains and stunning gothic Minster (cathedral). A medieval marvel, the highlight of the city is the Shambles , surely one of the most photographed laneways in England.

Go from York to Cambridge: The last long travel portion of this itinerary – the drive to Cambridge – will take three hours, though the train (connecting at Stevenage) will have you there slightly faster.

Day 9: Punt around Cambridge

Break up your trip back to the capital with a visit to learned Cambridge , England's other great university city. If the weather is good and you’re feeling energetic, rent a punt to explore The Backs of the colleges, or sit back and take a guided punt tour.

Go from Cambridge to London: From here it’s a short one-hour train journey or an hour and a half drive back to the capital.

Day 10:  Back to London

Enjoy a final day back in London, immersing yourself in galleries, museums, parks, street markets, West End shows or East End cafes – or whatever takes your fancy. Best of all, many of the top cultural experiences are free .

The wild side of England – a 10-day itinerary

This trip is a tour through the best of England's natural landscapes, the inspiration for generations of poets, writers and composers. Put on your hiking boots as we meander through some of the country's finest national parks and open countryside.

There are several different entry points and bases to choose from for each of the parks so driving distance and public transport connections can vary. Generally, the driving distance between each point on this itinerary is between 1.5 and 2.5 hours.

Day 1: Ramble along Hadrian’s Wall

Start at the spectacular Roman remains of Hadrian's Wall , one of England’s finest reminders of the classical era, where you can explore the ruins of Roman forts and stride, centurion-style, beside ancient ramparts.

Day 2: Unleash your inner poet in Lake District National Park

Continue into Cumbria to view the high peaks and deep lakes of the Lake District National Park. Once the spiritual home of Wordsworth and the Romantic poets, Lakeland is now a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts, with hikes for all abilities, plus cozy inns and country hotels to retreat to afterward.

Day 3: Find literary inspiration at Yorkshire Dales National Park

Traveling east from the Lakes carries you across the Pennines – the chain of hills known as 'the backbone of England' – to reach the green fells (hilltops) and dales (valleys) of the Yorkshire Dales National Park . Nearby are the dramatic moors around Emily Brontë's former home at Haworth – inspiration for Wuthering Heights .

Day 4: Take a spa break in Peak District National Park

Travel south through the hills and dales of the Peak District National Park . Buxton makes a great base for an overnight stop – you can enjoy the town’s Thermal Spa and duck into the magnificent Poole’s Cavern . Stop off to explore the lovely parklands around Chatsworth House near Bakewell if time allows.

Day 5: Feel a natural symphony in the Cotswolds

Travel through central England, via Elgar's beloved Malvern Hills, to reach the classic English countryside of the Cotswolds . Named for its famous rolling hills, this lovely landscape is worth meandering through slowly, by car or bicycle, on foot or on horseback.

Day 6: Unravel the mysteries of Salisbury Plain

Continue southwards to enjoy the epic emptiness of Salisbury Plain, home to Stonehenge and other intriguing archaeological relics. Nearby is Avebury , England’s other great stone circle, with cozy pubs for a mid-walk pint. 

Day 7: Find fossils on the Jurassic Coast

A few miles more and you're on Dorset 's spectacular fossil-ridden Jurassic Coast. There are dozens of circular walking routes to explore, and Lyme Regis makes for the perfect seaside pit stop.

Day 8: Track down wild ponies in Exmoor National Park

Head further west to take in the lush farmland of Devon and the heathery hills and sandy coves of Exmoor National Park . This otherworldly landscape is often graced by the appearance of wild ponies and deer so keep a camera to hand.

Day 9: Get uplifted on the moors of Dartmoor National Park

Onward to the eerie granite tors of Dartmoor National Park , which offer some of the country's most bleakly beautiful views. The famous mist adds to the haunting magic, although not without some navigation challenges. It’s easy to see how Dartmoor inspired Arthur Conan Doyle’s The Hound of the Baskervilles .

Day 10: Finish is cozy coves in Cornwall

Finally, enjoy the famous vistas of pretty ports, gorse-clad cliffs and sparkling bays in Cornwall . Finish this bucolic excursion at Land's End, where the English mainland finally runs out of steam and plunges headlong into the restless ocean.

Introducing Roman England – a 7-day itinerary

What did the Romans do for us? Find out on this south-to-north train trip back into England’s past, covering 572 miles (920 km) of landscapes and history.

Day 1: Hello Londinium

Londinium, the largest city in ancient Britannia, was a Roman creation. For an overview, start with the Museum of London ’s excellent Roman galleries, then see the remains of the 2nd-century amphitheater at Guildhall Art Gallery , the Temple of Mithras in the Bloomberg Building, and parts of the original Roman city walls just outside the exit of Tower Hill Underground station.

Go from London to Fishbourne: Take the train from Victoria Station to Fishbourne (1hr 50min).

Day 2: The villas of Fishbourne Palace

Romanized Britons built lavish country villas with all the latest mod-cons of the age, and one prime example is Fishbourne Palace near Chichester. Inside, the mosaics, especially the famous Dolphin Mosaic, are exquisite. Outside, the recreated villa gardens are the oldest in the UK.

Go from Fishbourne to Bath: Take the train from Fishbourne to Bath (3hrs).

Day 3: Take a bath in Bath

The Romans didn’t discover the waters at Bath, but they did build a huge bathing complex over them in the city they named Aquae Sulis. The 19th-century building over the site today contains the original Roman pools and a museum. For more modern dunking, the Thermae Bath Spa is just around the corner.

Go from Bath to Chester: Take the train from Bath to Chester (4hrs).

Day 4: Stand in the amphitheater of Chester

The amphitheater at Deva Victrix (ancient Chester ) was the largest in Britannia, built for the entertainment and training of the Roman soldiers stationed here. Excavated sections include two entrances used by performers. Nearby, in the middle of a former Roman quarry, the Minerva Shrine has a sculpture of the goddess of war and craftsmanship.

Go from Chester to York: Take the train from Chester to York (3hrs).

Day 5: Enjoy Eboracum (aka York)

When two Roman emperors die in your city and one is proclaimed there (Constantine the Great – his statue sits outside York Minster ), you’ve earned your place in Roman history. Eboracum, the Roman city of York, was founded by soldiers in 71 CE. Roman-era remnants include the remains of a basilica beneath York Minster and a bathhouse in the Roman Bath pub.

Go from York to Hadrian's Wall: Take the train to Hexham (1hr 45min).

Day 6: Patrol along Hadrian’s Wall

Hadrian’s Wall was a full stop in stone, marking the northernmost limits of the expansion of the Roman Empire. Built up from 122 CE onwards, this fortified wall stretches (almost) coast to coast across northern England. Highlights include Housesteads Fort and the Vindolanda Museum with handwritten letters from Romans stationed on the wall. Connect the sites along the wall using the AD122 bus , which starts from the abbey town of Hexham.

Go from Hadrian's Wall to London: Trains run from Hexham back to London, with a change in Newcastle (from 4.5 hrs).

Day 7: Back to Londinium

Spend a final day in the capital, admiring some of the finest Roman treasures unearthed in England at the stunning British Museum . Seek out the Mildenhall Treasure – a remarkable haul of Roman silver discovered by a farmer in Suffolk in 1942.

Destination expert AnneMarie McCarthy reviewed and updated this text for accuracy and relevance. Some content has been adapted from Lonely Planet's print edition.

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Perfect 10 Days in England Itinerary to see it all

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Are you thinking about visiting England and wondering how you’ll get to see it all? This 10 days in England itinerary is just what you need. It covers everything from the most iconic landmarks to world-class museums, royal palaces, and beautiful quaint villages where you can learn more about England’s rich history.

You’ll see the country’s vibrant culture through its famous food, the bustling capital city, and historic towns, which are among the most beautiful cities in Europe . 

There are plenty of things to do in England that it’s nearly impossible to see and do it all. But with this England itinerary for 10 days, you can expect to see the country’s most famous sights and a few hidden gems worth adding to your next UK itinerary .

Ultimate 10 days in England itinerary to see it all

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10-day England itinerary | At a glance

From the depths of Central London to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Stonehenge, this ultimate 10 days in England itinerary shows you the best of this stunning country.

Here’s a glance at how you’ll be spending your 10 days in England :

• Day 1 to 4 of 10 days in England itinerary: Explore the best attractions and historical landmarks in London city
• Day 5 of 10 days in England itinerary: Take a day trip to Windsor
• Day 6 to 8 of 10 days in England itinerary: Experience life from a storybook in The Cotswolds
• Day 9 of 10 days in England itinerary: Spend the day exploring Bath’s rich Roman history
• Day 10 of 10 days in England itinerary: Explore the UNESCO-listed city of Stonehenge

Arrival in England, United Kingdom

You’ll be arriving in London either at Heathrow or Gatwick Airport, as those are the main international airports in the United Kingdom. We traveled from Canada and arrived at the Gatwick Airport, and flew back from Heathrow. 

Heathrow Airport is the country’s busiest airport, so chances are higher that your flight will land there from the United States. It’s about 25.7 km (16 miles) from Central London, so you can either get a rental car or book a private transfer to drive to your accommodation. 

There are many places to stay in the city center; try staying at one of the London hotels with river views for an unforgettable stay.  

Day 1 of 10 days in England itinerary: London’s best attractions and historical landmarks

England is more than just London, yes. But you can’t possibly see and experience the best of this country without visiting its capital. 

The first four days of your England itinerary will take you through the best attractions and landmarks in London. 

To make the most of your visit, grab the London Pass that allows you to save money on transportation as well as access to more than 85 top attractions, tours, and museums. 

It also includes one round of hop-on and hop-off sightseeing bus tours at no extra cost.  Get your London Pass here

Where to stay in London:

London has many great accommodation options. From luxury to mid-range and budget hotels, you’re sure to find the one for you. Here are a few options you should check out:

• Vintry & Mercer: Enjoy being steps away from London’s most famous sights at this elegantly-decorated 5-star hotel. Book your stay here
• The Westminster London: Get stunning views of the River Thames while enjoying American steakhouse or Asian cuisine at this elegant hotel. Book your stay here
• Motel One London-Tower Hill: Get access to bustling eateries on Brick Lane and a vibrant Shoreditch nightlife without breaking the budget at this designer hotel. Book your stay here

London is the epicenter of England’s history and culture. This historic city is dotted with stunning cathedrals, palaces, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods. Here are a few things to do during your four days in London .

Tower Bridge

London’s Tower Bridge is one of the city’s standout landmarks. Standing at 800 feet across the River Thames, Tower Bridge is a suspension and bascule bridge, meaning it opens up to let big ships pass through. 

Walk across the bridge for great views of the HMS Belfast warship museum. If you would enjoy a Tower Bridge exhibition, consider booking a tour of the bridge , and get to its Victorian engine rooms and the glass walkway about 140 feet above the water.  

Tower of London

After crossing the bridge, make your way to the famous Tower of London. This historic castle sits on the north bank of the river and is most famous for being a royal residence during war times and a prison where prisoners were publicly executed.

There are a lot of interesting facts about the Tower of London, including that it’s home to the famous crown jewels. Take a Tower of London tour and get a warm welcome from the Yeoman Warders before visiting the Jewel House.

St. Paul’s Cathedral

St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in England. This Anglican cathedral has one of the world’s largest domes and is a great place to admire London’s Neoclassical English Baroque-style architecture. 

If you’d like to see more than just the exterior, buy a St. Paul’s Cathedral entry ticket and get to see the cathedral’s ornate nave, crypt, and three galleries. You can also walk up to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.

Trafalgar Square

This bustling public square is one of the most significant in London. Built as a celebration of the British victory against the French and Spanish in the Battle of Trafalgar , this square is also home to top attractions like the National Gallery.

Trafalgar Square is a popular tourist hotspot. The square’s two fountains and soaring monument guarded by lion statues are worth taking pictures of, so bring your camera. 

The Millennium Wheel, popularly known as the London Eye, is one of the world’s largest Ferris wheels. This monumental observation wheel is 443 feet long and has a diameter of 394 feet. You can catch a ride on the London Eye and get 360-degree views of London.

Big Ben is an unmissable landmark in London. It was renamed to “Elizabeth Tower” in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012, but locals and tourists still call it Big Ben. 

This colossal clock tower stands at about 320 feet and is one of the most picturesque spots in London.

Day 2 of 10 days in England itinerary: Enjoy a royal experience in the capital city

As the capital, London has been home to many monarchs throughout the centuries. Spend day two of your 10 days in England getting a glimpse of the royal lifestyle.

Palace of Westminster

Your second day in England starts where the first one ended – at Big Ben. The Palace of Westminster, also known as the Houses of Parliament, is a Victorian and Gothic structure, making it one of the most postcard-worthy sights in London.  

Westminster Abbey

Westminster Abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic churches in the world. 

It’s best known for hosting coronations (including the upcoming coronation of King Charles III) and being a burial site for many monarchs like Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots .

You can buy an entrance ticket to Westminster Abbey and get to stroll through a thousand years of history with the help of an audio-guided tour. 

Buckingham Palace

Buckingham Palace is arguably the most famous royal residence in England. It has served as an abode for monarchs since 1837 and currently serves as the administrative headquarters. 

Marveling at the iron gates, the guards, and Buckingham Palace from the outside is a great experience, but there is so much more. You can also get a tour of the state rooms and browse the Royal Collection, which includes paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto.

Tip: If you’d like to see the Changing of The King’s Guard, make sure you get there early before the masses arrive. This ceremony starts at 10:45 am and lasts for about 45 minutes.

The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace

After exploring the state rooms, head over to the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace. These equestrian stables boast an extensive collection of royal carriages and coaches. 

On display, you’ll see the Gold State Coach – a 260-year-old gilded carriage that’s been used for every coronation since William IV. 

Also, keep your eyes peeled for horses that pull the carriages. The Windsor Greys are used by monarchs and their guests, while Cleveland Bays are used by high commissioners and ambassadors.

Day 3 of England Itinerary 10 days: Experience the best museums in Central London

London is home to some of the best museums in Europe. Outside of British history and culture, you’ll also get to see historical artifacts and relics from across the globe.

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is a must-see attraction in London, famous for its extensive range of specimen exhibits. 

From dinosaur skeletons to fossils, minerals, and rare plants, this museum boasts over 80 million specimens on display. And the best part is, it’s free!

You can take a private tour of the Natural History Museum to see highlights that you would have otherwise missed. You’ll also get to hear stories behind the exhibits from an expert guide.   

Victoria and Albert Museum

If you’re an art aficionado, this is the museum for you. The Victoria and Albert Museum is the largest in the world for applied and decorative arts, as well as design. 

It boasts over two million objects from various historical eras and cultures from across the world.  

The National Gallery

Art enthusiasts will also love the National Gallery. This art museum is home to about 2,300 paintings dating back to the 13th and 19th centuries. 

The National Gallery houses some of the world’s most famous masterpieces from the likes of Van Gogh, Picasso, Da Vinci, Botticelli, and Rembrandt.

If you’d like to learn more about the artworks, take a guided tour and see the best of the gallery’s marvelous pieces with the help of an art expert.

The British Museum

If you’re keen to learn more about human history, culture, and art, there’s no better place than at the UK’s largest museum. 

The British Museum boasts a vast collection of artworks from famous empires like ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. 

A guided tour of the British Museum takes you through the highlights, including the Rosetta Stone and the controversial Elgin Marbles. 

Day 4 of England Itinerary 10 days: London off-the-beaten-track attractions

Discover the best of London’s bustling city life at one (if not all) of these off-the-beaten-path attractions.

Little Venice

Located in West London, Little Venice is a charming canal neighborhood boasting quaint boathouses, as well as waterside cafes and pubs. It’s one of the most picturesque areas in London and definitely worth a visit. 

Kensington Palace

This stunning royal residence often gets overlooked by tourists, but they are missing out. 

Set in the beautiful Kensington Gardens, this palace is where Prince William and Kate live with their children, it also hosts a range of historical artifacts worth browsing.

Tip: Want to know more about the history of the palace and which monarchs have lived there? Book a Kensington Palace ticket and hear surprising stories about the royal family.

Stamford Bridge Stadium

If you’re familiar with football (or soccer in the US), you’ll know that England’s Premier League is one of the best-rated in the world. So unsurprisingly, football is a big part of English culture. 

Get a ticket and experience patrons chanting, singing, and coaching from the stands at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea FC’s home ground. You can also head west to see a Fulham FC game at Craven Cottage. 

Borough Market

The Borough Market is one of London’s oldest and largest markets. Many foodies will love browsing the more than 100 stalls and food stands of the market selling everything from cured meats to pastries, fish, and fresh fruits and vegetables. 

The market opens Tuesday through Sunday, from 10:00 am (9:00 am on Saturdays) to 5:00 pm (4:00 pm on Sundays).

Tip: If you’d like to see more of London’s street food culture, you can take this secret food-tasting and walking tour around the city.

Day 5 of 10 days in England itinerary: Go on a day trip to Windsor

Windsor is a historic town about an hour’s drive from London. It’s home to the magnificent Windsor Castle, but there’s so much more you can do here. 

Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle is the town’s most significant attraction, and that’s why many tourists take a day trip from London to see it. 

It is the world’s largest and oldest inhabited castle, and it boasts a vast collection of royal treasures, apartments, and paintings. 

You can get a peek into Windsor Castle with this admission ticket to a self-guided tour. 

St. George’s Chapel

St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle is a medieval Gothic-style building famous for being the burial ground for many English monarchs, including the late Queen Elizabeth II. 

It was also the venue for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding. 

Note: The Windsor Castle admission ticket also gives you access to St. George’s Chapel.

The Long Walk

Lined with leafy oak, chestnut, and London plane trees on each side, the Long Walk is a nearly three-mile path stretching from the George IV Gateway at Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse statue. This is a great pathway to take a leisurely stroll after seeing the castle.

Windsor & Eton Brewery

Wrap up your day with a refreshing pint at Windsor & Eton Brewery. This quaint and rustic taproom offers a great selection of local craft beers. You can enjoy anything from ales to lagers and IPAs. 

Day 6 to 8 of 10 days in England itinerary: Live the fairytale life in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is a magical place in the UK officially declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1996. It boasts idyllic villages, enchanting rolling green hills, and old buildings made from honey-colored limestone.

Where to stay in the Cotswolds:

Since you’ll be spending a few nights in the Cotswolds, here are a few accommodation options to consider:

• The Fleece at Cirencester: Situated in the city center, this 300-year-old building still has its original beams and log fires. Book your stay here
• The Old Stocks Inn: This 17th-century coaching inn overlooks a stunning green landscape and offers great al-fresco dining. Book your stay here
• The Broadway Hotel: Enjoy a regal stay at this 16th-century timber and Cotswolds-stone hotel and experience staying in their 19 individually-designed bedrooms. Book your stay here

Day 6 – Cirencester

Cirencester is often called the capital of the Cotswolds due to its central location in the region. 

It’s not a popular tourist attraction, but it’s a worthy addition to your Cotswolds itinerary as it has numerous interesting buildings, lodging options, and great restaurants.

You can start your day by visiting the Corinium Museum. You’ll find ancient relics from the region’s Roman heritage. Then head over to New Brewery Arts. This is a hub for visual and performing arts and crafts, situated in a Converted brewery. 

And if you’d like to buy a few trinkets or souvenirs to take home, you’ll find great options at the craft shop.  

Next, take a short drive to Arlington Row in Bibury, where you’ll find a stunning set of heritage buildings. The cottages on Awkward Hill are the most popular and picturesque collection of buildings, so remember to bring your camera. 

Day 7 – Bourton-on-the-Water & Stow-on-the-Wold

The Cotswolds has lots of stunning villages and old towns, and Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold are two that you should not skip. 

Bourton-on-the-Water is a riverside village with charming stone houses and low-lying bridges. You can visit the town’s Cotswold Motoring Museum for a preview of cars from the 20th century. 

Next, you can visit the Model Village, where you can stroll through and take pictures of a miniature version of Bourton-on-the-Water.

Stow-on-the-Wold is an old town sitting atop an 800-foot hill, making it the highest town in the Cotswolds. You can enjoy various walking tours around town; famous attractions include the medieval St. Edward’s Church, where you’ll find the mesmerizing hobbit door.

Tip: If you’re not staying overnight in the Cotswolds, this full-day tour from London takes you through Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and the nearby city of Burford.

Day 8 – Broadway

Spend your last day in the Cotswolds on Broadway. This village lies at the foot of Cotswolds Hills and is dominated by a tree-lined street dotted with charming eateries, hotels, and shops.  

Spend your day roaming the idyllic streets and visiting museums like the Gordon Russell Design Museum and the Broadway Museum & Art Gallery.

Day 9 of 10 days in England itinerary: Explore the historical town of Bath

Spend one day in Bath , exploring the town’s elegant tearooms, cafes, and stunning Georgian and Neoclassical Palladian architecture. Bath is a very walkable city, and it has been famous since the Middle Ages thanks to its wool industry. 

Read : Is Bath worth visiting?

Roman Baths

The Roman Baths are, without a doubt, the most popular attraction in town. Dating back to 70 AD, this well-preserved complex of changing rooms and plunge pools gives you a sneak peek into how people socialized 2,000 years ago.

You can visit the Roman Baths interactive museum, where you’ll learn more about the history of the complex, and you may even get to dip your toes in the water. 

Afterward, you can head over to Bath Abbey to marvel at the magnificent Gothic architecture.

The Jane Austen Centre

Located just a short stroll away from Bath Abbey, and the Roman Baths is the Jane Austen Centre. The novelist spent several years living and writing in Bath, and visiting this centre is a great way to understand the times and how she lived. 

It will take about an hour to explore all the exhibits. You can click to buy a ticket here (all-day validity). 

Two of Jane Austen’s novels are set in the city – Northanger Abbey and Persuasion.

Sally Lunn’s House

Get a quintessential experience at the oldest house in Bath. Sally Lunn’s House is a historic restaurant and tearoom famous for the Sally Lunn Bun – a semi-sweet bread often served with tea. 

The restaurant is still functional, so you can enjoy a tasty breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner. You can also browse through their Kitchen Museum, where you’ll see the actual kitchen used by Sally Lunn .

Royal Crescent

Your final stop in Bath is the famous Royal Crescent. This half-moon-shaped row of 30 terraced houses is one of the most photographed buildings in England and an exquisite display of Georgian architecture.

After taking pictures, make sure you pop into the No. 1 Royal Crescent. This heritage museum is furnished with period-appropriate furnishings, household objects, and decor that captures what it would have been like living and working in these ancient buildings. 

Note : Plan to return to London by evening, stay here on nights 9 and 10.

Day 10 of 10 days in England itinerary: Marvel at Stonehenge

Stonehenge is an attraction in England that needs no introduction. This iconic stone circle in Southern England is a designated UNESCO Heritage Site and one of the world’s most extraordinary prehistoric monuments. 

Stonehenge Visitor Center

Start your day at the Stonehenge Visitor Center. This is where you’ll get all clued up about the unconfirmed origins of the stone circle. 

You’ll also find parking, restrooms, a grab-and-go cafe, and picnic areas with views of Stonehenge.

Stonehenge Complex

Catch a bus from the visitor center to get to the Stonehenge complex , which takes about 10 minutes. Make sure you download an audio tour from the visitor center to guide you through the complex.

Take your time strolling through the nearly 100 colossal upright sarsen stones, and see if you can figure out how the Neolithic builders constructed this complex – and why it took them nearly 1,500 years. 

Salisbury Cathedral

End your 10 days in England itinerary at the breathtaking Salisbury Cathedral in the city centre. This Gothic Anglican cathedral was founded in 1220 as a response to the worsening relationships between the clergy and the military. 

Fun Fact: Salisbury Cathedral is home to one of the four surviving Magna Carta documents from 1215.

Sightseeing Map: England 10 Day Itinerary

Alternate England Itinerary: Culture and Nature Lovers

We will share an alternate 10 days in England trip which is a perfect blend of city, culture, and nature activities. For this travel itinerary, plan to arrive in London, and spend 3 days here. 

• Day 1 to 3: London

Set aside the first day itinerary in exploring the city centre of London. Start with a tour of Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, before visiting the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. 

Then take a stroll through the awe-inspiring St Paul’s Cathedral and explore the world-famous British Museum. Don’t forget to take a boat tour along the River Thames, or an iconic red bus to explore London’s vibrant markets and unique shops.

Keep day 3 for special sightseeing activities – if you are a museum lover, visit all the iconic places such as the Natural History Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum,  National Gallery, Tate British, Churchill Museum, etc. 

If you love to shop, hit shops on Regent Street, King’s Road, Oxford Street, Piccadilly, or Bond Street. 

For Harry Potter fans, you can also book the Warner Bros Studio tour from London. You will learn all the behind-the-scenes secrets of making the Harry Potter series, along with its whimsical sets, props, and costumes. Book the experience here

Day 4: Lake District

From London, you can take in some of England’s most iconic landscapes in the Lake District. 

Spend the day exploring its tranquil lake shores, traditional villages, and picturesque towns. 

Admire rolling hillsides, rocky outcrops, lush green valleys, and dramatic peaks. Visit the cultural home of authors such as Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter and soak up some of England’s most breathtaking views.

Note : You can travel to Lake District by train (London Euston train station) or embark on a road trip for the remainder of a one week itinerary, before traveling back to London to fly out. 

Day 5: York

The next stop is North Yorkshire where you can explore the ancient city of York with its superb cathedral, beautiful castle, and cobbled streets. 

Lake District to York train is about 2 hours and 45 minutes. 

Spend the day discovering its 2,000 years of history and uncovering tales of plague and devastation. 

Take in some of England’s best-preserved medieval architecture and visit the city’s many attractions including York Minster, York Castle Museum, the Jorvik Viking Centre, and The Shambles.

Day 6: Yorkshire Dales National Park

The Yorkshire Dales National Park is a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, rugged valleys, and stunning countryside. By taking a day trip to this area (1.50 hours drive from York), you will be able to experience the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales first-hand. 

Head up to Malham Cove for some spectacular views across the valley or take a walk through one of the many limestone pavements. You can also admire the impressive Pen-y-ghent, a distinctive hill overlooking the dales.

Pen-y-ghent hike can be completed in 4 hours, and enjoyed by large groups and families alike. 

For those wanting to explore more of the countryside, you can take a guided tour around one of the many traditional villages that dot the landscape. 

Venture into Hawes for some unique shops and galleries, and learn about the history of the area. 

Day 7 to 9: Devon – Dartmoor National Park

After that, you can head south to Devon and journey through Dartmoor National Park. It will be a long drive from York, but it is worth it, and we recommend booking accommodation for the next few nights here. You can easily spend 2-3 days exploring the park.

At the Dartmoor National Park, explore the vast landscape of rocky tors, meandering rivers, and lush valleys. Take in views of the wild moors across from tranquil villages and discover hidden gems including ancient burial grounds, historic churches, and mysterious standing stones. 

Top spots to include: Haytor (home to the visitor centre), Black Tor, Brent Tor, and Brentor Church. 

The Tors are the reason why people visit Dartmoor, and Tors refer to the dramatic granite rock formations that are found dotted everywhere at the national park. 

Also, stop by the Postbridge Clapper Bridge, Lustleigh (village), and Bellever Forest for hikes and walks.

Day 10: Drive or travel to London

After exploring Dartmoor, plan to travel back to London to fly out the next day. 

Other sightseeing and travel tips for England Itinerary 10 days

You can further make adjustments to the above itinerary as follows:

• Day 4 to 5 : York

Spend 2 days in the English countryside visiting iconic cities and towns such as Bath, Stratford Upon Avon, and Oxford. You can also add 2 days in the Cotswolds and set aside one day for Stonehenge. 

Days 6 to 7 in Bath + Stratford Upon Avon and Oxford : 

Spend a day in Bath and then the next day visit Oxford and Stratford Upon Avon on a guided excursion. 

Explore ancient universities such as Oxford University, grand cathedrals, and stunning Georgian architecture, or journey through the English countryside on a vintage steam train ride. 

Days 8 to 9 in Cotswolds : 

Check off the Blenheim Palace, and later wander the beautiful villages of Cotswolds such as Castle Combe, Chipping Campden, Bourton On the Water, and beyond. 

Day 10 in Stonehenge : 

You can end your trip with a visit to Stonehenge, one of England’s oldest sites that still continues to fascinate visitors today. 

Gaze upon its iconic megaliths, standing tall and adorned with mystery – allowing you to marvel at the wonders of England’s ancient past.

Extending your 10 days in England Itinerary

By the end of your 10 days in England, you will have experienced some of its best sights and attractions – giving you a fantastic insight into the culture, history, and beauty that lies within this fascinating country. 

Want to explore more? We have a detailed United Kingdom itinerary for 10 days, which covers cities like Cardiff and Edinburgh in Scotland. 

If you wish to cover just the highlights of England with the UK , then you may like this sightseeing agenda, 

Day 1 – 3 : London and Windsor

Day 4 : Wales day trip. It is possible to explore Cardiff on a day trip from London, and visit the castle complex, sightseeing cruise, museums, and hang out at the Arcades

Day 5 – 6 : Cotswolds

Day 7 – 8 : Travel to the Scottish capital city of Edinburgh. Visit the Edinburgh Castle , Royal Mile, Princes Street Gardens, and Arthur’s Seat

Day 9 – 10 : Scottish Highlands and beyond. You can keep Edinburgh as a base and take a day trip to explore Loch Ness and nearby areas. 

If you are a Harry Potter fan, you can also book a Hogwarts Express tour from Edinburgh  

Ultimate England Itinerary: 10 days to see it all | Wrapped up

England is a great destination to visit in Europe. Its numerous castles, palaces, and ancient city walls make it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. And if you’re into nature, England has spectacular rolling hills and national parks that you’ll love.

Art aficionados will appreciate England’s vast collection of galleries and museums, there’s even street art for you to enjoy. 

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in England, and that’s why you’ll need at least a week to 10 days to explore all of its landmarks and attractions.

Read more of our UK travel guides:

• One day in Cardiff itinerary
• One day in Edinburgh itinerary
• Scotland itinerary 4 days
• London bucket list

Pin: Perfect 10 days in England Itinerary

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

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10 Days In England: The Ultimate Itinerary 2024

With 10 days in England, you’re going to be spoiled for choice. Known for its history, rolling green hills, and quaint country villages (and rain, but we won’t mention that!), England is a varied and vibrant country to visit.

Adam and I grew up in England, and with our passion for travel, we have spent many weekends and holidays exploring our home country. From the Yorkshire Dales to the home counties, we’ve lived and worked all over, and couldn’t wait to get down this 10 day itinerary for you all!

10 days in England is the perfect amount of time to get a taste of it all. From bustling city life to quiet country lanes, this 10 days in England itinerary covers it all so that you can leave knowing you got the full English experience!

• Days 1 & 2 – London
• Day 3 – Brighton
• Days 4 & 5 – Bath
• Day 6 – Bristol
• Day 7 – Cotswolds
• Days 8, 9 & 10 – Yorkshire

10 Days in England – Days 1 & 2

England is a country known for its rich history, beautiful countryside, and lively cities. There are plenty of things to do in England, no matter what your interests are, and with 10 days here you can cover a lot of ground.

We’ve picked out the highlights so you can plan your trip knowing you’ve seen the very best England has to offer.

Where better to start your 10 days in England than in the country’s vibrant capital – London. The chances are you’ll be flying into London, so it’s the perfect place to begin your trip.

London’s founding can be traced to 43 CE, when the Roman armies began their occupation of Britain. Since then, London has been an important city for England and the place of many a historic event!

You’ll find beautiful old architecture mixed with modern art, 5-star hotels alongside street food cuisine, museums and castles, and some of the best evening entertainment around. Get ready to have your senses awakened!

With so much to do and see here that you couldn’t possibly pack it all into only a few days. That being said, two days is enough time to see the main attractions and get a real feel for this melting pot of a city. If you only have 10 days in England then make sure a couple of them are spent seeing London’s highlights.

We’ve listed the top sights, or you can check out our detailed guide on 2 days in London for an itinerary that takes in all the city’s highlights in the best order, including the best places to eat and drink, and some top nightlife ideas too! Make sure you check the London packing guide to ensure you have everything you need for your time here.

London’s Highlights

Don’t miss:

• Natural History Museum
• Buckingham Palace
• Big Ben and The Houses Of Parliament
• Westminster Abbey
• The London Eye ( book your tickets here )
• Thames river boat tour
• The Tower of London
• Tower Bridge
• HMS Belfast
• St Paul’s Cathedral

Top tip: By far the cheapest way to see London’s top attractions is by buying a London Pass . For under £80 you get entry to over 80 attractions and a hop on, hop off bus ride for a day (which on its own is £40 , and totally worth it even if you don’t opt for the pass!).

Some of the popular attractions included are the View from the Shard, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey, London Bridge Experience, Tower Bridge Exhibition, and ZSL London Zoo.

We get a small percentage if you buy through our link, but that’s honestly not why we’re recommending it here. It will genuinely save you a lot of money if you plan on visiting even a few of London’s best attractions and it’s such an easy way to know you have tickets for London’s highlights.

Where to stay in London

London is absolutely packed with great accommodation options for every budget (though you will find prices a little steeper here as with every capital!)

Here are our top picks for staying in London for the first time .

We’ve also rounded up the very best London hotels with a view and the best hotels in London with a rooftop pool if you want to make your stay here really special.

If London is too pricey then consider using Brighton (below) as your base and taking the train into London to explore instead.

• The Walrus Bar and Hostel  – For budget travellers
• The Z hotel in Shoreditch  – great value in an upbeat and popular part of London with good dining options
• The Mandrake  – a beautiful boutique hotel in central London
• The Savoy  – True luxury, with a price tag to match! This is for special stays!

10 Day Itinerary for the UK – Day 3

Head to Brighton for day 3 of your trip to the UK!

With only 10 days in England, you won’t have time to explore a lot of the south, but we would recommend taking a day trip to Brighton from London so that you can experience a typical English seaside town.

Brighton is only an hour’s train journey away from London, so it’s the perfect day trip destination! Use The Trainline  to book tickets in advance, pack a picnic and rug, and head to the beach!

Brighton is one of the UK’s most popular seaside destinations, and it has a great mix of culture, fun, beach tackiness, and old charm. There are lots of things to do here including arcade games on the pier, bike tours around the city, taking in the views from the i360, or exploring the Brighton Lanes.

Where to stay in Brighton

If you have longer than 10 days in London then you might want to stay in Brighton for a few nights and enjoy the party scene. Or you could do the first part of the trip in reverse and use Brighton as your base, taking the train into London to sightsee.

Snooze: Each room here is individually decorated in an interesting and quirky style in fitting with Brighton’s trendy scene. If you’re looking for something a little different then head here!

✅ Check current availability and prices

Clarence Square: This wins for location, so if you only have one night in Brighton this is a good choice. If you’re staying for longer then this has cooking facilities so you won’t have to splash out on restaurants every night.

✅ Check availability and prices here .

Top Tip: We recommend Booking.com to find the best accommodation after literally hundreds of stays with them. Make sure you read our full review of Sykes Holiday Cottages before you consider booking through them.

10 Days in England Itinerary – Days 4 & 5

Bath is a UNESCO World Heritage City and well worth visiting on your 10 days in England. The architecture and history here make it one of the most beautiful cities in England and we can see why London’s Victorian gentry headed here for their holidays.

Start off your time in Bath with a walking tour (if you’ve read more of our travel guides you’ll know how much we love walking tours!) For lovers of Bridgerton, this is a must-visit destination, and you can swap your historic walking tour for a Bridgerton experience tour instead!

You should also visit the Roman Baths while you’re here, and Bath is a great shopping destination with some super cute vintage and art stores. For something a little different take a boat cruise along the River Avon and take in the city from the water.

It will take around 3 hours to get from Brighton to Bath on the train. Book your tickets in advance .

Where to stay in Bath

Bath is a lovely place to base yourself for a few days during your trip to England. It isn’t known for being a party capital but there is plenty of nightlife in Bath, and there are also some great restaurants. The real treat about staying in Bath is the beautiful accommodation on offer.

The Kennard, stay somewhere grand: Bath was after all the go-to place for London’s elite in the Victorian era. The Kennard will certainly impress, with its grand decor and comfortable surroundings.

✅ Check availability and prices here

The Roof Terrace: Trade traditional for views with a stay in this modern apartment. It’s in the centre of Bath and has a rooftop terrace that is worthy of opening a bottle of bubbly for!

✅ Check availability and prices here.

England Travel Itinerary – Day 6

Bristol is one of England’s most vibrant cities and everyone who visits dreams of living here. It has a small-town feel with big-city opportunities and there are lots of interesting things to do here that are a little different from your usual city sightseeing.

One day here is enough to take in some of the most famous sights, but the real pull of Bristol is just its atmosphere. If you like the sound of Bristol you could swap your two nights in Bath for two nights here instead!

While you’re in Bristol you should visit the suspension bridge and snap away at the views, and if you’re after even more history then visit Brunel’s SS  Great  Britain. You should also keep an eye out for Bristol’s famous graffiti as you walk around the city.

One of the things we love most about Bristol is the individual shops, bars, and restaurants here, so don’t pack your day too full of activities! Make some time to eat yourself silly at a vegan cafe, or try out the much loved Jerusalem Falafel .

Where to stay in Bristol

Hotel du Vin : The Hotel du Vin is purely luxurious, with dark wooden interiors and decadent bathtubs. In fact, a stay here might prevent you from getting out and exploring!

✅ Head here for availability and prices .

Berkeley Square BnB: If you opt for several nights in Bristol then you might want to opt for accommodation you can feel at home in. This BnB is in a great location and has all the creature comforts.

✅ Check availability and prices.

10 Days in the UK – Day 7

The cotswolds.

The Cotswolds is a rural area of England that covers parts of 6 counties. It’s famous for its beautiful little villages, stately homes, and churches, and is a very different side of England to the larger cities. It’s well worth spending a day or two of your 10 days in England itinerary visiting some quaint villages surrounded by countryside.

There are lots of options for places to base yourself while in the Cotswolds and where ever you do end up will be gorgeous. The best things to do while you’re here are to slow down. Take a day or so to recharge by pottering around old villages, eating scones and jam in tea rooms, and visiting national trust property gardens.

10 Days in the north of England – Days 8, 9 & 10

Yorkshire is one of the most beautiful places in the north of England (in our opinion anyway!) and it’s a great place to end your 10 days in England. From here you can fly out of Manchester, which has a large airport or travel back to London to head home.

Yorkshire covers quite a wide area and there are tonnes of different things to do here to suit all tastes. Some of the best UK National Parks lie in or within easy reach of Yorkshire and are well worth your time if you love the outdoors.

We’ve listed a few ideas of places to visit depending on what you want out of the rest of your trip!

One of the most beautiful cities in the UK and a true northern city too, York is a must-visit if you’re up there. York is atmospheric and moody, with its dark stone buildings, ancient alleyways, and fascinating history. It’s one of the few places that’s still beautiful in the rain, as the cobblestones glisten and the dark skies make it more mysterious than ever.

You could easily spend the whole three days here, visiting the York dungeons , taking a candlelit cruise up the River Ooze, or taking a steam train ride through the moors . One of the best things to do here is to simply wander and take it all in.

Where To Stay In York

✅ Avondale Guest House is full of English charm and only a 10-minute walk from the center of York. It’s a great option for couples and families alike.

Visit Haworth for a break from city life, and experience the true charm of an English village. Haworth is home to the famous Bronte sisters, English novelists who wrote classics such as Wuthering Heights and Jane Eyre.

It’s a tiny place, little more than a cobblestone street with fascinating shops and tea rooms, but it’s the perfect place for a night away from it all and has some great walks in the surrounding areas.

Go Walking in the Moors

No trip to Yorkshire would be complete without a walk or two through the breathtaking moorlands. Yorkshire is famous for its outdoor life, and the treks here are stunning.

You have a huge choice of treks to take while you’re here, but one of the most famous is the Malham Cove walk. The impressive scenery you’ll see from this hike will have you desperate for more time in the area, so it’s a great place to end your 10 days in England – planning your return!

We’ve detailed the Malham Cove walk for you, including the best places to park, the best route to take, and other important information! You’ll want to save a whole day for this hike, and you’ll need decent walking shoes and an outdoor jacket.

Is 10 Days In The UK Enough?

The UK is an incredible country with so much to see and do here. You could spend a whole month exploring London alone and still not see it all.

That being said, 10 days in England is enough to see some of the best cities and areas of natural beauty and to get a real feel for the country.

Simply follow this itinerary to see the best the UK has to offer!

Conclusion: 10 Days In England

Hopefully this article has helped you plan your 10 days in England, and we’ve no doubt that you’ll have the most incredible trip! Give us a shout in the comments section below if you have any questions about travel in the UK.

If you’re after more travel inspiration and tips then follow us on social media.

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England & Scotland Tour - 10 Days

Discover England and Scotland on this 10-day tour, which will take you to the best of Amazing Britain. Travel through the English and Scottish countryside and visit historic cities, including London, Liverpool, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. Take in the breathtaking views of the Lake District and Scottish Highlands and much more. Travel is in a luxury coach with the services of a travel director.

Our 10-day England and Scotland tour is available throughout the year and includes accommodation, breakfasts, some evening meals, a driver and a guide.

Day 1 – Arrive in London

The first day of your England & Scotland tour is spent in London. Arrive in the capital and explore the city at your leisure. See the River Thames, admire the Houses of Parliament, or perhaps take an evening stroll through London’s bustling Covent Garden district.

Hotel: Hilton Kensington

Day 2 – Stratford-upon-avon & York

Your 10-day England & Scotland tour begins with meeting your Travel Director in the morning. Journey into the English countryside with a visit to the historic town of Stratford-upon-Avon. The town is associated with the life of William Shakespeare, and we will visit his birthplace and the Visitors Center to learn more about his life. Visit the thatched-roof cottage of his wife, Anne Hathaway, and take a stroll through the charming cobbled streets with time for lunch.

William Shakespeare’s Birthplace

In the afternoon, we visit the ancient city of York with its Viking, Roman and Norman roots.  Begin the visit with a guided walking tour where we will see the ancient Roman walls and stroll along The Shambles, a narrow street with medieval buildings housing local shops and cafes.  See York Minster, a magnificent Cathedral that towers over the city. In the evening enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers and Travel Director in a charming pub.

Hotel: Clayton Hotel, Leeds

Day 3 – Durham & Edinburgh

We’ll spend day three travelling through Northern England and into Scotland. Our first stop is to the medieval town of Durham, where we visit the iconic Durham Cathedral and, from the outside, view Durham Castle. We continue our drive north, crossing what was once the border of the Roman Empire, Hadrian’s Wall, built by the Romans to keep out the ‘Barbarians’ from the North. Enjoy wonderful views of this beautiful landscape as we cross the border into Scotland. We stop to visit the 12th-century ruins of Jedburgh Abbey before arriving at the Scottish capital of Edinburgh. In the evening you will have free time, or choose to take  our optional visit.

Optional Extra: Enjoy the ‘Johnny Walker Journey of Flavor’, a sensory experience of this iconic whisky. Learn about the drink in a 90-minute tour with a whisky expert and enjoy a meal with live performances and light shows.

You will stay for two nights at the Holiday Inn. Breakfast included.

Day 4 – Edinburgh

Join a local specialist to explore Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. Walk along the Royal Mile to see wonderful views of the Palace of Holyroodhouse, King Charles III’s official residence in Scotland, and, the Scottish Parliament. Visit the medieval Edinburgh Castle, with its ancient fortifications and see the Scottish Crown Jewels The castle offers stunning panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the city at your leisure or take one of our optional visits.

See the spectacular Edinburgh Tattoo on days that it takes place during the summer. Tickets to the event are included.

Optional Extra: Travel with your guide to the small village of Rosslyn to visit the 13th-century Rosslyn Chapel, famed for its association with the Knights Templar, as popularized in the Da Vinci Code.

Optional Extra:  Enjoy an evening of Scottish food and entertainment. Hear traditional tunes from a Scottish Piper, and enjoy a 3-course meal with a drink.

Day 5 – Scottish Highlands

Day 5 takes you North into the Scottish Highlands with its breathtaking scenery. Our first stop is to the ancient town of St Andrew’s which is known as the home of golf, where we will see the iconic 18th hole. We will then visit a Whisky Distillery, which is such an important part of Scottish culture, to see how this iconic drink is produced and, of course, sample a wee dram. We continue North to the town of Pitlochry to watch salmon leaping upstream and onwards into the stunning scenery of the Cairngorms National Park.

Optional Extra:  Visit Blair Castle, the ancestral home of the clan Murray.  Set amidst stunning landscapes, this magnificent white-washed fortress has origins dating back to the 13th century.

Optional Extra: Visit a Highland sheep farm. Meet with Neil, the shepherd, and his sheep dogs who will demonstrate the art of herding sheep with whistle commands.

Overnight accommodation is in the Highlander Hotel in the Cairngorms National Park, Dinner and breakfast are included.

Day 6 – Glencoe, Highlands & Glasgow

Glencoe, in the heart of the Scottish Highlands

On the sixth day of our 10-day England and Scotland tour, we begin with a scenic drive through some of Scotland’s most dramatic and spectacular scenery. We pass the World War II Commando Memorial and see spectacular views of Ben Nevis, which is the highest mountain in the British Isles. We stop at Glencoe to see some dramatic Highlands scenery. The location featured in the Harry Potter movie ”The Prisoner of Azkaban’ and in James Bond’s ‘Skyfall’. We then travel past the shores of Loch Lomond and arrive in Glasgow. Enjoy an orientation tour, taking us past many of the city’s highlights.

Optional Extra: Enjoy a scenic boat cruise along Loch Lomond.

OIptional Extra: Visit Stirling Castle and The Wallace Memorial by night, which includes dinner with traditional Scottish pipers.

Overnight is spent at the Novotel Glasgow Centre. Breakfast included.

Day 7 – Lake District & Liverpool

Start the day with a visit to Gretna Green, located near the Scottish-English border, famously known as a romantic destination where couples elope to marry, often at its historic blacksmith’s shop. We then say goodbye to Scotland and cross back into England. We visit a local farm to meet Christine, who will show you the workings of the farm, including her Highland Cows, followed by a delicious homemade lunch. We then drive into the Lake District, an area of outstanding natural beauty, passing Lake Windermere, which is considered the most beautiful lake. before arriving in the port city of Liverpool.

Optional Extra:  Enjoy a guided tour of Liverpool visiting many of the sites made famous by The Beatles, including Penny Lane, as well as the UNESCO Albert Docks.

Overnight: The Mercure Liverpool Atlantic Tower hotel. Breakfast included.

Day 8 – Wales & Bristol

Departing Liverpool, we head into the Welsh Countryside, passing through the Wye Valley. This is an area of outstanding natural beauty that lies along the English/Welsh border. We continue to the market town of Ludlow with a short tour and free time to explore. Dominated by the imposing Ludlow Castle, the town features narrow, winding streets lined with half-timbered houses and independent shops.

From here, we continue South, crossing the Clifton Suspension Bridge into England. Arriving in Bristol, enjoy a panoramic tour of the city followed by free time to explore at your leisure. Bristol has a rich maritime history, and the bustling Harbourside area brims with museums, galleries, and eateries.

Enjoy an evening dinner in a local restaurant (included).

Optional Extra: You can also enjoy a guided tour of Bristol which was once a great seafaring port. Visit the SS Great Britain, launched in 1843, it was the world’s first great ocean liner.

Accommodation: Mercure Holland House. Breakfast included.

Day 9 – Stonehenge & Bath

We start the day with a visit to Bath. The city is famous for its Roman origins and magnificent Georgian architecture. Enjoy a walking tour of the city, which you might recognize as the backdrop for many historical movies, including Pride & Prejudice. We visit the Roman Baths, which played a major part in Roman culture and from which the city derives its name. From here, we journey to Stonehenge, the UNESCO World Heritage Neolithic Site with its gigantic stone circles dating back over 5,000 years. We end the day in London.

Overnight stay at Hilton Kensington. Breakfast included.

Day 10 – Depart London

Wake up and enjoy breakfast. After 10 wonderful days, our England and Scotland tour comes to an end.

• 9 nights accommodation in carefully selected hotels
• Breakfast every day except day 1
• 1 lunch and 3 dinners ( Jain, Kosher, Halal, Vegetarian and Vegan options available
• Transportation in a luxury coach with air-conditioning and WIFI
• Audio headsets
• All porterage, hotel taxes, hotel and restaurant gratuities
• On rare occasions, hotels of a similar standard may be used

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• If you have any questions please  contact us
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England 10-Days Tours and Itineraries

Cover the highlights of both England and Scotland during a 10-day England tour. Visit the haunts that were once frequented by poets, scientists, and philosophers while in London and behold its well-preserved architectural monuments. Head off to the English countryside to see the vast expanses of rolling hills dotted by sheep and cattle and continue to the university towns of Oxford and Cambridge. The dreaming spires of Oxford and the monumental grandeur of Cambridge’s King’s College Chapel, a Gothic masterpiece, beckon travelers from far and wide. Spend the final few days of your trip in Scotland, surveying its looming mountains, picturesque lochs, and stunning Highland.

You can check out our 10 day England itineraries below.

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Best UK Itinerary 10 Days (England + Scotland)

Read a detailed day-wise UK itinerary 10 days with city-to-city commuting options, hotel stay options, things to do, vegetarian food options, adventure activities, and many more FAQs for first-timers to the UK. 

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UK Itinerary 10 Days

Read day-wise UK in 10 days – a perfect UK itinerary 10 days with all helpful information. 

Day 1: Arrival in London (UK Itinerary 10 Days)

Buy London Pass with access to 85+ attractions

• Arrive at one of London’s airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, or City Airport).  
• Take a taxi, train, or bus to The Blackbird hotel in Greater London .

• Enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea .
• Overnight stay in London.
• Perfect London Itinerary 3 Days For Family (Hotels + Things To Do + FAQs)

Day 2: London Sightseeing

• Take a hop-on-hop-off bus tour to visit famous attractions like the Houses of Parliament(Palace of Westminster) , Westminster Abbey , and the London Eye .

• Consider taking a river cruise on the Thames for a different city perspective .

👉🏼Ultimate UK Itinerary 2 Weeks + Best Things To Do & Tours (England Scotland Itinerary 2 Weeks)

Day 3: Day Trip to Oxford and Cotswolds

• Visit famous colleges like Christ Church and the Bodleian Library.
• In the afternoon, head to the charming Cotswolds region, known for its picturesque villages and rolling hills.
• Explore villages like Bourton-on-the-Water or Stow-on-the-Wold.
• Return to London for overnight stay.

👉🏼Perfect London Itinerary 7 Days – Best Things To Do, Hotels, Nightlife & Useful Tips

Day 4: London to Edinburgh

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• Take a morning train from London to Edinburgh (approx. 4.5 hours) or consider a short flight.
• Arrive in Edinburgh and check into YOTEL Hotel .

• Explore the lively Grassmarket area and enjoy traditional Scottish cuisine with Scottish whiskey-tasting tours .
• Overnight stay in Edinburgh.

Day 5: Edinburgh Sightseeing

• Visit the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht of Queen Elizabeth II.
• Attend a traditional Scottish show or enjoy live music in one of the city’s pubs.

Day 6: Day Trip to Loch Ness and Highlands

• Take a guided tour to visit Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands .
• Enjoy the breathtaking scenery, visit the ruins of Urquhart Castle , and keep an eye out for the legendary Loch Ness Monster.
• Explore the charming Highland villages and learn about Scottish history and folklore.
• Return to Edinburgh for overnight stay.

Day 7: Edinburgh to York

• Explore York’s historic city walls, visit the magnificent York Minster, and walk along the narrow medieval streets of the Shambles.
• Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre for an interactive experience on Viking history.
• Overnight stay in York.

👉🏼Best UK Itinerary 3 Weeks (England, Ireland, Scotland & Wales Tour)

Day 8: York to Bath

• Take a train from York to Bath (approx. 3 hours) and check into the Z Hotel Bath .

• Explore Georgian architecture and visit landmarks like Bath Abbey and the Royal Crescent.
• Relax in the Thermae Bath Spa, Britain’s only natural thermal spa.
• Overnight stay in Bath.

Day 9: Bath to Stonehenge and Salisbury

• Take a guided tour or rent a car to visit Stonehenge , a mysterious prehistoric monument (approx. 1.5 hours from Bath).
• Explore the visitor center of Stonehenge and learn about the history and theories surrounding Stonehenge.
• Continue to the nearby city of Salisbury and visit Salisbury Cathedral, home to the Magna Carta.
• Return to Bath for overnight stay.

Day 10: Bath to London Departure

• Take a train from Bath to London (approx. 1.5-2 hours
• Arrive in London and check into your hotel.

• Consider visiting museums like the Tate Modern or the Victoria and Albert Museum.
• Shop at popular areas like Oxford Street or Covent Garden for souvenirs.
• Enjoy a West End theater show or dine at one of London’s renowned restaurants in the evening.

Day 11: Departure from London

• Check out your hotel and go to the airport for your departure from the UK.

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Valuable Resources – UK In 10 Days

Read about some helpful things to know before you plan your UK itinerary 10 days.

City-to-City Commuting Options – UK Itinerary 10 Days

• Buses: National Express and other coach services provide affordable options for traveling between cities, though the journey times may be longer than trains.
• Flights: Domestic flights can be quicker for longer distances or time constraints. Airlines like British Airways and EasyJet operate flights between major UK cities.

Hotel Stay Options: – UK Itinerary 10 Days

• Edinburgh:  Look for accommodations in the Old Town or New Town areas, which are close to major sights and offer a range of options.
• York : Stay within the city walls near attractions like York Minster and the Shambles.
• Bath:  Choose a hotel in the city center, close to the Roman Baths and other landmarks.
• Consider booking accommodations in advance to secure the best rates and availability.

👉🏼Best England Itinerary 7 Days – London, Oxford, Bath & Many Exciting Places Tour

Things to Do During UK In 10 Days

• London:  Visit museums (British Museum, Natural History Museum), explore markets (Camden Market, Borough Market), enjoy a river cruise, and experience the city’s vibrant nightlife.
• Edinburgh:  Explore the Royal Mile, hike up Arthur’s Seat, visit the National Museum of Scotland, and enjoy the Edinburgh Festival (August).

• York:  Explore York Minster, walk along the city walls, visit the National Railway Museum, and take a ghost tour.
• Bath:  Tour the Roman Baths, visit Bath Abbey, stroll along the Royal Crescent, and relax in the Thermae Bath Spa.
• Day Trips:  Consider visiting attractions like Loch Ness and the Scottish Highlands, Stonehenge, Salisbury Cathedral, or the University town of Oxford.

Things To Do In London for Kids (UK Itinerary)

London offers a plethora of exciting and kid-friendly activities that are sure to keep children entertained and engaged. Here are some top things to do in London for kids:

• The Natural History Museum:  Explore the dinosaur gallery, marvel at the enormous blue whale model, and discover interactive exhibits that showcase the wonders of the natural world.
• Science Museum:  Let your kids immerse themselves in hands-on and interactive science exhibits and watch a live science show or 3D movie.
• London Zoo:  Visit one of the world’s oldest and most renowned zoos, where children can see various animals, attend feeding sessions, and enjoy educational talks.

• KidZania:  Located in Westfield, London, KidZania is an interactive city designed for children to explore different careers and play in a realistic mini-city setting.
• The Tower of London:  Experience the medieval history and intrigue at the Tower of London, where kids can learn about kings and queens, see the Crown Jewels, and even encounter the famous Beefeaters.
• Diana Memorial Playground:  Located in Kensington Gardens, this playground is inspired by the stories of Peter Pan. It features a pirate ship, a sensory trail, and various play areas for children to enjoy.

• The London Transport Museum:  Explore the transportation history in London through interactive exhibits, vintage vehicles, and a play zone for younger children.
• Thames River Cruise:  Hop on a boat and cruise along the River Thames, taking in the sights of London’s iconic landmarks. Some cruises even offer special-themed tours for children.
• The V&A Museum of Childhood:  Located in Bethnal Green, this museum showcases a collection of toys, dolls, and childhood artifacts, allowing kids to learn about the history of play.
• Princess Diana Memorial Fountain:  Let kids cool off and have fun at this unique water feature in Hyde Park. The circular stream is perfect for splashing around on a warm day.

These are just a few examples, and London offers many more kid-friendly attractions and activities. From parks and playgrounds to theaters and interactive museums, there’s no shortage of things to do to make your visit to London memorable for the whole family.

Things To Do In the UK For Adventure Lovers

The UK is a fantastic destination for adventure lovers, offering many thrilling activities and outdoor experiences. Here are some top things to do in the UK for adventure enthusiasts:

• Coasteering in Pembrokeshire, Wales:  Dive, climb, and jump along the rugged coastline of Pembrokeshire. Coasteering combines cliff jumping, rock scrambling, and swimming, providing an adrenaline-fueled coastal adventure.
• Rock Climbing in Peak District, England:  The Peak District offers excellent opportunities for rock climbing, with its dramatic gritstone edges and limestone crags. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced climber, there are routes to suit all levels.
• Surfing in Newquay, Cornwall:  Head to the surfing capital of the UK, Newquay, where you can catch some waves and enjoy the thrill of surfing. With several surf schools and beautiful beaches, it’s a fantastic spot for beginners and experienced surfers.
• Mountain Biking in the Lake District:  Explore the Lake District’s scenic trails and challenging routes on a mountain bike. With its varied terrain and stunning vistas, the Lake District offers a thrilling adventure for biking enthusiasts.
• Sea Kayaking in the Scottish Isles:  Discover the remote and wild beauty of the Scottish Isles by sea kayak. Paddle through crystal-clear waters, explore sea caves, and encounter diverse marine life while enjoying the tranquility of the remote coastal landscapes.
• Zip-lining in Snowdonia, Wales:  Soar through the skies and enjoy breathtaking views of Snowdonia National Park on a zip-line adventure. Zip World offers exhilarating experiences, including Europe’s longest zip line and the world’s first four-person zip line.

• Caving in the Mendip Hills, England:  Explore the subterranean world of caves and underground passages in the Mendip Hills. With experienced guides, you can crawl, climb, and squeeze through fascinating cave systems.
• Canyoning in the Brecon Beacons, Wales:  Descend waterfalls, swim through pools, and scramble across rocky terrain on a canyoning adventure in the Brecon Beacons. It’s a thrilling activity combining climbing, swimming, and sliding elements.

The UK’s diverse landscapes and natural beauty offer endless opportunities for adventure lovers to create unforgettable experiences. Enjoy these adventure sports with the guidance of experienced instructors and guides who can provide training and equipment rental. Remember to prioritize safety and ensure you have the necessary skills and equipment for each activity.

Best Time To Visit the UK

The best time to visit the UK depends on your preferences and the specific experiences you are seeking. Here’s a breakdown of the different seasons and what they offer:

• Spring (March to May): Spring in the UK is generally mild, with blooming flowers and longer daylight hours. The countryside is lush and green, and you can enjoy outdoor activities without the peak summer crowds. It’s a great time to visit gardens like the famous Chelsea Flower Show in London.  

• Autumn (September to November):  Autumn brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures to the UK. It’s an excellent time for scenic drives through the countryside, exploring national parks, and visiting historic sites. Autumn also offers cultural events like the Last Night of the Proms and the Bonfire Night celebrations on November 5th.
• Winter (December to February):  Winter in the UK is cold, with shorter days and occasional snowfall. However, it’s a magical time to experience festive celebrations, Christmas markets, and ice skating rinks in cities like London and Edinburgh. The countryside can be particularly picturesque, especially in areas like the Scottish Highlands.

It’s important to note that the weather in the UK can be unpredictable at any time of the year, so it’s advisable to pack layers and be prepared for varying conditions. Additionally, popular attractions and cities may be busier during school holidays and major events, so plan accordingly and consider booking accommodations and tickets in advance.

Where to Find Good Vegetarian Food In the UK

There are many Indian restaurants in the UK where you can find the finest vegetarian food. And if you are looking for other cuisines, then here are some recommendations for vegetarian places to eat in the locations above:

London – 10 Days In UK

• The Gate: Known for its innovative vegetarian and vegan cuisine, The Gate has multiple locations in London. Their menu features a fusion of flavors and includes dishes like wild mushroom risotto and beetroot tart.  
• Vanilla Black : Located near Chancery Lane, Vanilla Black offers a sophisticated dining experience with its vegetarian and vegan tasting menus. Their inventive dishes showcase creative flavor combinations.
• Tibits:  Situated in the heart of London, near Regent Street, Tibits is a popular vegetarian and vegan buffet-style restaurant. It offers a wide variety of fresh, seasonal dishes worldwide.

Edinburgh – 10 Days In UK

• Henderson’s:  A longstanding vegetarian institution in Edinburgh, Henderson’s offers a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including hearty salads, soups, and their famous haggis.
• David Bann:  Located in the historic Old Town, David Bann serves contemporary vegetarian and vegan cuisine with international influences. Their menu features dishes like spiced chickpea pancakes and Thai curry.
• Holy Cow:  This vegetarian and vegan café, situated in the city center, serves delicious plant-based comfort food, including burgers, wraps, and cakes. They also have gluten-free options.
• Paradise Palms: An eclectic vegetarian-friendly bar and café in the city center, Paradise Palms offers a relaxed atmosphere, tasty vegetarian dishes, and creative cocktails.

Bath – 10 Days In UK

• Acorn Vegetarian Kitchen:  Located in the heart of Bath, Acorn Vegetarian Kitchen offers an exquisite dining experience with its gourmet vegetarian and vegan tasting menus featuring seasonal ingredients.
• Beyond the Kale:  A cozy vegetarian café near Bath Abbey, Beyond the Kale serves various plant-based dishes, including salads, wraps, and smoothies. They also have gluten-free options.
• Rooted Café:  In the city center, Rooted Café specializes in vegetarian and vegan cuisine, serving dishes like falafel wraps, Buddha bowls, and vegan cakes.
• The Green Rocket Café:  Known for its vibrant vegetarian and vegan menu, The Green Rocket Café offers a range of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including breakfast options, sandwiches, and burgers.

The UK has a growing vegetarian and vegan food scene, and these recommendations should help you find delicious plant-based options during your travels.

FAQs – UK Itinerary 10 Days

Certainly! Here are some frequently asked questions for first-time visitors to the UK:

• What currency is used in the UK, and how can I exchange money?

The currency used in the UK is the British Pound (£). You can exchange money at banks and exchange offices or use ATMs (cash machines) nationwide. Notifying your bank before traveling is an excellent way to ensure your cards work abroad.

• What is the best way to get around the UK?

The UK has an extensive transportation network. For intercity travel, trains are often the fastest and most convenient option. Buses/coaches are also available for longer journeys. Public transportation systems like the London Underground (Tube) or buses are efficient in cities. Taxis and ride-sharing services are widely known as well.

• Do I need a visa to visit the UK?

UK Visa depends on your nationality. Some nationalities are visa-exempt and can visit the UK for tourism purposes for a limited period. Others may require a visa. Check the UK government’s official website or contact your home country’s British embassy or consulate for up-to-date visa information.

• What is the tipping etiquette in the UK?

Tipping is customary but only sometimes mandatory in the UK. In restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill. If not, leaving a tip of around 10-15% is expected if you’re satisfied with the service. In bars, rounding up the bill or leaving loose change is appreciated. Tipping taxi drivers is also customary.

• What is the weather like in the UK, and what should I pack?

The weather in the UK can be unpredictable. It’s best to pack layers to accommodate varying temperatures and occasional rain. Bring a waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella. It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip and pack accordingly.

• Are there any cultural etiquette or customs I should be aware of?

Queuing (waiting in line) is a cultural norm, so be patient and wait your turn. In the UK, it’s common to greet people with a handshake. British people appreciate politeness and saying “please” and “thank you.” It’s also polite to ask before taking photographs of people or religious sites.

• What are some emergency numbers in the UK?

In emergencies, dial 999 for police, ambulance, or fire services. For non-emergency medical assistance, you can call NHS 111.

Now you know the best places to visit in UK with this 10 days UK itinerary guide with hotel options, things to do, activities for all ages, and vegetarian food options. So plan your fun-filled 10 days in UK with this UK itinerary travel planner.

Download Travel Checklist to plan your UK itinerary 10 days

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

A 10 Day UK Trip Itinerary by Public Transport – Train or Bus

Last updated: June 11, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 31 Comments

In today’s post I’m going to share with you a 10 day itinerary for a UK trip, specifically covering England and Scotland, which will let you visit and travel around the UK entirely by public transport, and in particular by bus or train.

I have written a couple of posts giving detailed itineraries for the UK , but those are focused on self-drive trips. I’m often asked if they can be done by public transport, and whilst the answer is usually yes, it does come with caveats as the itineraries aren’t really designed around the public transport system in the UK.

With that in mind, I’ve put together the below itinerary for ten days in the UK that is designed to be done by public transport. The UK has an excellent public transport system, especially between the major cities, making it relatively easy to see quite a lot in a short space of time. So if you are interested in travelling the UK by train or bus, this itinerary is for you!

Let’s get started with my guide to taking a trip around the UK forb ten days by public transport.

A 10 Day UK Trip Itinerary

Here’s the detailed day by day itinerary for your 10 days in the UK

Days 1 & 2: London

I firmly believe that no trip to the UK is complete without spending some time in London, and that’s why this itinerary is kicking off with two days in the capital.

There is so much to do in London, and even if you have visited before, I guarantee you will find plenty to do. From classic sights like the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace to visiting the Tower of London , through to afternoon teas and shopping at iconic stores like Harrods – truly, everyone will find something they love to do in London.

We have visited London a number of times, and have put together a number of guides to the city to help you out. Our first tip for inspiration would be to check out our guide to spending two days in London , which should give you some ideas, and if you have more time to spend in London check out our detailed  six day London itinerary .

We’ve also written a guide to getting into the city centre by public transport from all the major London airports , which you should find helpful for planning your arrival and departure if you are flying into the city.

Finally, if you’re planning on doing some sight-seeing, we definitely suggest checking out the London Pass , which will likely save you money. You can see our full  review of the London Pass here .

For accommodation, London has options to suit every budget. Start your search by taking a look at the London listings on booking.com , which is our preferred way of booking accommodation when we travel. For apartments, we love the curated selection on Plum Guide .

• Day 3: Oxford

From London, it’s about an hours train ride to Oxford, or around an hour and a half by bus. Oxford is a stunning small university city that has served as the inspiration for numerous novels and films, and was one of the locations that the Harry Potter films were shot at. It’s a definite must for any visit to the UK.

A day is enough to see the city as it’s quite small. We’d recommend taking a walking tour of the city and universities , dropping into one of the beautiful old pubs like the Turf Tavern , and perhaps trying your hand at a spot of punting. There are also several great museums to explore in Oxford.

Otherwise, we’re sure you’ll just enjoy wandering the gorgeous streets of this city. For a lovely view across said streets, take a walk up to the top of the  University Church of St. Mary the Virgin , which is right next to the Radcliffe Camera.

For more inspiration, take a look at our guide to spending a day in Oxford,  a city we love visiting so much that Jess also wrote her thoughts on visiting Oxford for a day !

For accommodation, see the options for Oxford on booking.com here .

• Days 4 & 5: Bristol

From Oxford, it’s an hours train ride to the next city on our 10 day UK itinerary – the lovely port city of Bristol. Buses are also available from Oxford to Bristol, and the journey is around three hours by bus.

In Bristol you’ll find a rich history of ship-building and trade, as well as Victorian engineering marvels like the Clifton Suspension Bridge. There’s an old city center to explore, one of the most vibrant street art scenes in the UK , beautifully coloured houses to photograph and of course, a number of excellent museums.

One highlight not to miss is the SS Great Britain . Originally built in Bristol in 1845, this was the world’s first ship to boast both an iron hull and a screw propeller.

She’s been beautifully restored and is now Bristol’s top visitor attraction. Note that tickets are slightly cheaper if you book them online, which you can do online here .

If you visit in August, you’ll also be able to attend Europe’s largest annual Balloon Fiesta –  the  Bristol International Balloon Fiesta . This takes place over four days in early August every year, and is free to attend.

For more ideas for your visit to Bristol, take a look at our guide to things to do in Bristol , as well as our guide to visiting the Bristol Balloon Fiesta , should you be lucky enough to be in town during this epic event.

For accommodation in Bristol, take a look at the Bristol accommodation page of booking.com .

• Days 6 & 7: Liverpool

From Bristol, it’s time to turn north and head up to the home of the Beatles – Liverpool! You’re looking at around a three hour ten minute train ride from Bristol, which includes a change of trains (usually at Birmingham or Stafford). There are also buses available, which take in the region of 5 to 7 hours.

There’s plenty to do in Liverpool to fill two days of your time. Fans of the Beatles will want to head to Liverpool’s most popular museum – the Beatles Story . This is the world’s largest permanent exhibition devoted to one of the UK’s most successful rock bands.

Liverpool has more than the Beatles though. Liverpool’s historic Albert Dock  waterfront area has been revived, and turned from a 19th century dock complex to a modern thriving attraction with shops, accommodations, museums and attractions. As well as the Beatles Story, you’ll also find the Merseyside Maritime Museum , the Tate Liverpool , and the International Slavery Museum .

Finally, football fans might want to take a stadium tour of Anfield – the home of Liverpool FC.

For accommodation in Liverpool, see all the listings for Liverpool on booking.com here .

• Day 8: York

Now we’re going to head north east across England, past Manchester and Leeds, to the beautiful historic city of York – just under three hours train ride away. Buses are also available, and these generally take between four and six hours.

The walled city of York was founded by the Romans nearly two thousand years ago, and has seen it’s fair share of history – for a time it was even ruled by the Vikings, and was known as Jórvík.

Today, there are still many reminders of the cities medieval past. A walk through “the Shambles” is a must – a winding medieval street overhung by old, timber framed houses and lined with pretty shops.

You’ll also want to check out the city walls – York has more miles of intact city wall than any other city in the UK. Originally built in Roman times, the surviving walls largely date from the 12th – 14th centuries, and you can see both the walls and their gatehouses, also known as “bars”.

Finally, no visit to York is complete without a visit to York Minster, York’s Cathedral. This is one of the most impressive religious buildings in the UK, built in the Gothic style, and with the present building dating from the 13th century. A highlight of any visit has to be a walk up to the top of the towers, from where you’ll get a gorgeous view.

For more information on your trip to York, see our guide to spending two days in York , which should give you lots of inspiration.

For your accommodation in York, check out the listings on booking.com here .

• Days 9 & 10: Edinburgh

Our last stop on our ten day UK itinerary has you crossing the Scottish border and visiting the Scottish capital – Edinburgh.

From York, it’s around a 2.5 hour train ride to Edinburgh, or 5 – 8 hours by bus.

This is a fantastically beautiful medieval city which features a castle built atop a volcano, lovely old cobbled streets, a whole Georgian era town, quaint villages to explore and of course, all the things you would expect from Scotland – haggis, tartan, bagpipers, and whisky!

There is a lot to do in Edinburgh. We very much recommend a visit to Edinburgh Castle , a stroll down the Royal Mile and some whisky sampling at the Edinburgh Whisky Experience.

If you’re planning on visiting a number of the Royal sights in Edinburgh, including Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace and the Royal Yacht Britannia , then you should consider a Royal Edinburgh Ticket . As well as giving you access to those three attractions, it also gives you a two day hop on hop off bus ticket for Edinburgh. See our full review of the Royal Edinburgh ticket to see if it might save you money.

For more ideas in Edinburgh, check out our suggestions for two days in Edinburgh , as well as our guide to some of Edinburgh’s hidden gems . For accommodation, see Edinburgh’s listings on booking.com .

For returning home after your UK tour is done, you have a number of options depending on where you are returning to. Edinburgh airport is just eight miles outside the city center, and offers a wide range of flights to both domestic and international destinations. To get to Edinburgh airport you can take the tram or AirLink Bus directly to and from the city centre.

If your return flight is from London, you have a number of options for returning to the capital city (including flying of course).

The main train station in Edinburgh (Edinburgh Waverley) is centrally located, and there are a number of train services that run directly to London, taking around 4 – 5.5 hours. There is also the option to take an overnight sleeper train from Edinburgh to London – read our experience doing that here . You can also take a bus from Edinburgh to London, which takes between 9 and 11 hours.

For more options, check out our detailed guide to getting between Edinburgh and London .

And that sums up our route for a ten day UK trip across England and Scotland! Now for some helpful hints and tips to help you plan your perfect adventure.

Map of Route for 10 Day UK itinerary

Here’s a map of the route to help you out with visualizing our 10 day UK trip itinerary, which you can see on Google Maps here .

10 Days in the UK: Summary Itinerary

Here’s a quick overview of this itinerary for reference:

• Days 1 & 2 : London

Tips for Using Public Transport in the UK

When it comes to taking public transit in the UK, you have two main options, the train or the bus, more commonly known as a coach.

As you can see from post, the train service in the UK is going to be the fastest way to get around for this public transport itinerary, especially between the major cities.

To get the best prices on trains, it’s essential that you book in advance. Tickets purchased on the day are nearly always going to be more expensive. Advance purchase tickets will save you money and usually come with a seat reservation.

There are a number of websites for booking UK train tickets online. We recommend the  Trainline  service, who have been around for a long time, and who we usually find to be the easiest for booking train tickets across the UK.

Opt to collect your ticket at the station to save on the ticket delivery fee – you will need the booking reference number and your credit card to pick up the ticket. Note that this will usually require a PIN enabled credit card. Alternatively, they usually allow you to print your tickets at home or use e-tickets.

They also let you book tickets for destinations all across Europe, and so are a handy one stop shop for all your ticket needs.

If you’d prefer not to have to worry about booking all the train tickets individually, or figuring out the pricing structure, another option is to invest in a UK rail pass. These are only available to UK visitors who don’t have a UK passport. If that’s you, you can likely save time and money by buying a UK Britrail pass .

For this itinerary, the best pass would likely be the 8 day consecutive pass, which would get you from London to Edinburgh through all the locations on this itinerary. These are available in first or second class, depending on your budget and travel style. Get yours here .

By Bus or Coach

You can also easily do this itinerary by taking long distance bus services (called coaches in the UK). Coach fares are often cheaper than train fairs, although as you can see from the itinerary, they usually take quite a bit longer. We therefore would only advise them if you are looking to save the maximum amount of money, or for the shorter legs like London to Oxford, or Oxford to Bristol.

They can also sometimes be a little easier, such as in the case of Bristol to Liverpool, as that route by train requires a change.

There are a number of long distance coach operators in the UK. The two we would recommend are National Express and Megabus , both of which offer a wide range of routes across the country.

From London to Oxford specifically, you have more choices, as well as the above options you can take the Oxford Tube . We’d suggest finding the route that departs from closest to your hotel to make it easier to get to it with your luggage.

As with the train, in most cases the best deals are available if you book as far in advance as possible for a specific bus time.

Is this UK Itinerary Achievable with Children?

So first, I have to say that Jess and I don’t have kids, so we don’t have first hand experience of travelling with children. However, a common question from readers is whether or not this UK itinerary can be done as a family.

Of course, every family is different, and there is no one size fits all answer. It will depend a lot on your individual family and travel style.

That said, speaking to friends with children and other family travel bloggers, as a general rule you will want to adjust your trip pace somewhat to suit the needs of your family. With this in mind, I would probably advise slowing the pace a little bit for the trip, and in this case of this itinerary, perhaps skipping one or two towns so you can travel a bit slower.

Obviously what you choose to leave out is up to you, but I would overall suggest focusing on Edinburgh, York, Oxford and London as an example, with 2 – 3 days in Edinburgh / London, and 1-2 days in York / Oxford.

Other Options for Touring the UK

If, having read all the above, you are feeling a bit overwhelmed at the idea of planning your UK trip yourself, don’t worry. We have a couple of other options for you to consider.

First, you could take a group tour of the UK. This will take you to a wide variety of sights, with someone else handling all the logistics, and letting you just relax and chill out.

We have used and can recommend Rabbie’s Trail Burners for this sort of thing – they’re a small group tour operator with lots of experience and great guides. As an example, they have an eight day tour that departs from London and goes to Edinburgh . Whilst the route isn’t quite the same, you will still see plenty of cool stuff.

Finally, you can also arrange a private tour. This will usually be a more expensive option, but will mean you can put something totally customised together. This is a service offered by a number of companies, we would again recommend Rabbie’s Trail Burners who offer a customised tour service .

Another option we are happy to recommend is a professional driver-guide. This website lists all the certified blue badge guides offering tours across the UK. We have taken tours with these guides and always had a good time.

Where to Stay in the UK

For accommodation, there are a great many options to choose from, ranging from cosy B&B’s through to upmarket hotels, and everything in between. We’re big fans of Plum Guide , but for shorter city stays like those outlined in this itinerary, you will probably find hotels to be more convenient.

• Our go-to choice to find the best deals on accommodation is with Booking.com . We find they usually have the best prices, they will price match if you happen to find a better deal, and they have a huge range of accommodation options – including apartments.
• If you prefer an apartment or more of a hosted stay, then we recommend Plum Guide . We’ve tried many options, and have found Plum Guide to have the most consistent experience in terms of quality places to stay.
• If you can’t find the room or apartment you want on Plum Guide, or you want some new options to try out, we have some alternatives we also use. We suggest trying Vrbo to start with. For even more ideas to help you save money and get the best choice, we wrote a whole post on the best holiday cottage and apartment rentals options in the UK .

Between these options, you should find the best prices and places to stay for your trip, as well as a good selection of reviews and feedback to help you make an informed decision.

When to Visit the UK

The UK is good to visit at any time of year, although for the best weather and longer daylight hours, we’d definitely suggest visiting in the warmer months – from May to September. May and September are probably our favourite times of year, the weather is usually quite reasonable but the tourist crowds are not too intense.

Christmas, and the period leading up to Christmas, can also be a wonderful time to visit, when the streets and shops are all brightly lit and decorated for the festive season.

For a good example of this, check out our guide to visiting Edinburgh at Christmas .

Further Reading for your 10 Day UK Trip

We’ve got lots of resources to help you plan your trip to the UK, both posts we’ve written ourselves based on our experiences travelling in the UK, through to third party content we’re happy to recommend. We think you’ll find them useful for planning your perfect UK trip:

• If you would prefer a self-drive trip, check out my one week UK itinerary and my two week UK itinerary , which are both self-drive trips.
• For budget planning, see our guide to how much it costs to travel in the UK
• A two day Edinburgh itinerary, 21 Highlights in Edinburgh and Getting off the beaten path in Edinburgh
• For London, we have some detailed itineraries and guides to help you plan your visit. These include a 1 Day London Itinerary , a Two Day London itinerary , a 3 Day London Itinerary and a Six Day London itinerary . We also have posts on The top Harry Potter sites in London and Tips on Buying and Using the London Pass
• For Oxford, we have a guide to spending A Day in Oxford
• In Bristol, check out our guide to  things to do in Bristol , as well as our guide to the street art of Bristol
• Getting online when travelling in a foreign country can be daunting – check out our guide to getting online when travelling to help you figure out the best options for your trip
• If you’re interested in getting better photos when you travel, take a look at my online photography course , where I’ll teach you everything you need to know about getting better photos – whatever camera you have!
• If you want a physical (or digital!) book to accompany your travels, then Amazon do a good line in UK Travel Guides , and there is naturally a Lonely Planet and a Rough Guide to the UK available. We also think the Rick Steves guidebooks are excellent, and for our 10 day UK itinerary you should check out the Rick Steves Great Britain guide .

And that sums up our 10 day UK itinerary post! We hope you found it useful. If so, please share it on your favourite social media networks to spread the word. And, as always, if you have any questions or comments, feel free to pop them in the comments below!

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Vittorio says

28th June 2022 at 4:12 am

Hi Laurence,

Thank you very much for putting this itinerary together, it’s been really helpful and I’m actually thinking about following it quite closely. To give you a little bit of context: I’m from Argentina and I’m 23. I’m traveling in end of September, and I’m gonna spend a couple of days in London, then go to Dublin and back to London due to certain events I’ll be attending. After that, I have two spare weeks. I’m a little bit unsure about Bristol as a destination. I’m not exactly a museum-kind-of-guy so I’m actually afraid it might not be a destination for me? In addition to that, I think I have exactly 13 days after I leave London. Do you think there’s any other place I should definitely add to my list? Bath? Cardiff?

Any advice you might have or any tweaks to this itinerary that you can think of will be greatly appreciated. Once again, thank you for your work, you make planning so very much easier.

Best, Vittorio

Laurence Norah says

28th June 2022 at 9:23 am

Hi Vittorio,

Great to hear from you and it sounds like you have a fun time ahead 🙂 So Bristol definitely has a lot more to offer than museums, it’s one of the best places in the UK for street art, it has a vibrant student and arts culture and there is definitely plenty to see and do as you would expect from a medium sized city. It is hard to know if it is right for you specifically as I’m not sure what your interests are. Many city destinations are going to offer a range of attractions. Somewhere like Bath for example is known for its pretty Georgian architecture, and there is lovely walking in the area around. Oxford and Cambridge have lovely colleges you can explore. However all three of these are smaller than Bristol. Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham are larger cities with a bigger feel and more choice of things like dining etc. However, it really depends a lot on what you want to see and do. So if you could give me an idea of what you would love to do then I can perhaps offer some more specific advice 🙂

30th June 2022 at 9:43 pm

Hi Laurence!

Thank you for such detailed answer, and sorry for the delay in getting back to you. I hope I will have a good time in the UK, I’m super excited!

You asked me what I would love to do… I love sports, so finding cities with a sports culture and history is always amazing. When I travel, I really like walkable cities where you can wander around and get lost in the streets and find little places to have coffee or a couple of drinks, or maybe just snap a picture of a beautiful alley. I’m also really fond of street art and architecture. I love meeting new people, so if the community is friendly is always a plus. Music is one of my great passions as well, so if there are places where one can go and check out local bands with a beer in hand, that’s amazing. Shopping is not a must, to be honest. Apart from that, I like nature so coastal cities or parks within big cities are usually places where I like to take a break from the hassle of the city.

I’m still young and discovering what I like to do when I travel, but that’s mostly what I like to do when I’m abroad. Get up early, have a good breakfast and walk until dawn 🙂

Thank you for your help. I really appreciate it. Cheers! Vittorio

1st July 2022 at 11:30 am

Hey Vittorio,

My pleasure, and there’s no rush! So in terms of sports obviously London has a rich history with multiple football teams, the Olympic Park and locations like Wimbledon. Manchester and Liverpool are also well known worldwide for their football teams. Most of these locations you can either go see a game (depending on schedules) or take a tour of the stadium. So definitely consider that.

If you like street art Bristol is probably one of the best cities in the UK for street art. It’s where Banksy started his career, and many of his originals can still be seen. Bristol also hosts a massive street art festival every year, and the street art around the city is really good. You can see my guide to street art in Bristol for more.

For live music, London is good for that for sure, just because the city is so big that there are so many venues. Check out the Camden area in particular. Liverpool is also good for this, it was the home of the Beatles after all! For parks, London also has excellent parks, but smaller cities like Bath and Oxford are surrounded by nature so it is easy to get out. Bath in particular has some lovely countryside around it and the six mile Bath Skyline walk is a lovely countryside walk you can do from the city centre on foot.

I would definitely include Edinburgh and York as well. York makes for a nice day of exploring, it’s small but the medieval streets are lovely. The same can be said for the old town of Edinburgh.

So I would probably say that this itinerary should overall work for you, every location has something a little bit different to offer. You could tweak it a bit in terms of how long you spend in each location, but overall I think it should be a good match!

Shemna says

18th January 2022 at 4:45 pm

Thank you for this itinerary! My sister and I are planning to travel in 2 weeks time for 10 days. We were thinking of covering London extensively and york. We have already been to Edinburgh before so not doing Scotland this time. We’re more interested to spend time visiting quainter villages. So we were thinking of having London as a base and doing day trips from there to Cotswolds, bath, the Stonehenge – what other place wud you recommend? And would you suggest any other place to make base rather than London?

Thanks in advance! Shemna

21st January 2022 at 10:52 am

It’s my pleasure! I would say you have a good plan. London is probably the best base as you can either take a train to the locations you describe, or book a day trip. I’d suggest maybe adding Stratford Upon Avon, Oxford and or Cambridge to your list, they are all worth visiting and easy to do as a day trip from London. Bath makes a good base for the Cotswolds, but I’m not sure if there are many tours from Bath specifically. Let me know if I can be of any more help!

17th January 2020 at 5:39 pm

This is precisely what I am looking for, for my upcoming 2-week ‘milestone birthday’ tour of Great Britain. I don’t want to drive, rather wanted a train journey with stops and day tours. Thank you for providing such detailed information! You’ve saved me a great deal of planning time! Susan

18th January 2020 at 10:00 am

Our pleasure Susan! If you have any questions as you plan, feel free to get in touch 🙂 We also have a travel facebook group with lots of folk keen to help out, which you can see here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/travelloversandphotography/

Have a lovely trip!

Tracy Lewis says

1st January 2020 at 5:49 pm

Hello, Just happened upon your website; can’t wait to share it. We are 4 seniors (2 married couples) planning a trip to Scotland, Ireland and Wales in mid to late Apr. 2020. We do not want to rent a car. I have a teacher friend in Welshpool Wales that I want to see. Please tell us the best way to visit these 3 places – train, ferry, plane? Which would you do first? We are leaving from NC in the USA. Thanks so much. I do have a concern that if we’re not with a tour group we’ll only be able to see the cities and not much of the countryside. I appreciate any help you can give. Thanks again!!

1st January 2020 at 5:50 pm

This is Tracy Lewis again. I think I forgot to mention that we can only be gone 16 days.

1st January 2020 at 8:23 pm

Thanks for your messages! So train is going to be the best way to get around England, Scotland and Wales. You can definitely get the train to Welshpool as I have done it myself many times as my grandparents used to live in that direction, you can get the train from Birmingham, which in turn you can reach easily from most of the rest of the UK.

In terms of seeing the countryside, certainly, you will be a little restricted without a car but all hope is not lost. If you combine the train with local buses you should be able to see quite a lot without needing a car. Of course, a tour is another good option, but obviously you have to go where the tour goes rather than at your own leisure. One option in this scenario is to base yourself in some of the cities and then take day trips out into the country. This can be a great way to get your countryside fix and see some of the sights that might be harder to see otherwise. In Scotland for example, there are a range of day trips from Edinburgh we’ve written about .

Between the UK and Ireland you can either fly or take a ferry. Without a car, I’d say flying from either Glasgow / Edinburgh to Belfast or Dublin would be easiest. From these two cities you can also take a number of day trips, or even 2 day tours. I think that would be what I would do – base myself in the city and then take the tours in the day, either day trips or two days tours.

I hope this helps a bit, let me know if I can offer any further advice and assistance 🙂

Have a great trip, and Happy New Year!

30th December 2019 at 5:12 am

Hi there. This site is a great find. I will be travelling to the UK in May/June spending a week in London visiting family and sites, then possibly following your itinerary afterwards. Just wondering if taking an 8 day rail pass to all the locations you mention, after my week in London, whether I could manage a return trip from Edinburgh to London on that same pass? Also, do you recommend one direction over the other? That is, based on time of year, would starting in Edinburgh, or London be best? Thanks in advance….

30th December 2019 at 3:23 pm

Thanks very much! So the rail pass will work for travel as long as you are within the 8 days of the passes validity. In terms of direction – I don’t think it matters too much! I would probably start in London as it’s the UK capital, but really it doesn’t make difference. The only difference would be around flights and where you want to fly to / from, and if this makes a difference to price. Don’t forget to check flight prices from Glasgow – it’s not far from Edinburgh and often has some good prices.

Have a great trip!

Karen Street says

20th October 2019 at 12:43 am

Hello, First of all thank you for this information. I appreciate it. My husband and I are planning to travel december 2020 for our 10 year anniversary. (I know it’s a little bit early but planning ahead is good for us.?)This is our first UK trip and planning for 10 days. Public transport or car? We are debating with that and we have experienced left side of the road driving because we just got back from Ireland. With public transport less stress right? Please advise for December season.

Thanks again.

21st October 2019 at 8:32 pm

Our pleasure. So if you are used to driving on the “wrong” side of the road, you should be fine driving if you choose to. However, if you are happy sticking largely to the cities, as outlined in this itinerary, then public transport would be my preferred option. It’s usually quicker (especially the train), can be more affordable if you book in advance, and most UK cities are not really car friendly so you have to park the car and pay for parking. So yes, I’d go for public transport 🙂

Have a great trip and let me know if I can help any more!

PS – it’s never too soon to plan!

karen street says

22nd October 2019 at 7:50 pm

Hello Laurence,

Thank you for the reply. Can you give me an advice during Christmas time where to stay? Planning leaving LA on 12/16/2020 to 12/28/2020. Help! Thanks 🙂

24th October 2019 at 12:48 pm

It’s really up to you in terms of your budget and requirements. For that time of year I’d recommend booking in advance, and I link to the website for booking.com on each city section so you can search 🙂 I have recommendations for some of the cities specifically in some of our other posts, including our London , Edinburgh , Oxford and Bristol content, which should also give you some more specific ideas!

Kathy Jones says

12th April 2019 at 6:30 am

Hi Laurence…..2 queries!!….we leave London ( staying in E Putney ) on train bound for Truro, with our luggage. Which station most practical to use please? Paddington the closest? Hiring a car at Truro ( probably Enterprise…hoping they’re as good as their website!) driving around U.K. for 10 days and returning car to Edinburgh before catching train to London again. Some have advised to drop hire car off at airport as Edinburgh city driving is a nightmare?!…but I see Enterprise have a depot in Waverley, which makes more sense to me as we are staying in Great King St in the centre. Would we manage the city streets?! Really grateful again for your help.

12th April 2019 at 12:06 pm

So I’m not sure you have a choice of train stations, unless I’m misunderstanding the question. The train you are booked on will have a specific departure station, so that’s the one you’ll have to go to 🙂 It’s it departs from Paddington, that’s an easy tube ride from East Putney, direct on the district line.

It’s hard for me to comment exactly on driving in Edinburgh. Personally I drive in Edinburgh all the time and have no problems, but I know friends of mine visiting from the US did not enjoy it (although this was exacerbated a great deal by them accidentally hiring a manual car that they weren’t used to!). Given that you are already used to driving on the left hand side of the road in a manual car, I don’t think you’ll have any problems. Bear in mind that many people coming to drive in the UK are used to driving automatics on the other side of the road, which can make the whole process a lot more nerve wracking. So I think you should be fine. Just make sure you have Google Maps with Edinburgh downloaded so you can get navigation instructions 🙂

Hope this helps! Have a great trip – let me know if I can help any more!

26th March 2019 at 11:56 pm

What do you do with your luggage while you’re sightseeing? Thanks.

27th March 2019 at 11:02 am

We usually leave it with the hotel we are staying at. If that’s not an option, we try and find a secure storage locker. However, that’s not normally an issue, most hotels are happy to hold onto it 🙂

31st October 2018 at 8:28 pm

Hi, Thank you for sharing such a detailed information! I’m really interested to plan my trip in december based on your guides. However, I will also be travelling with a baby, do you think this guide will be doable while travelling with a baby around 9 months old? What do you think I should adjust given the situation?

1st November 2018 at 1:38 pm

Thanks for your comment. I have to preface my response by saying that I don’t have children, so I don’t have any first hand experience. I know from speaking with other families who travel though, that it does tend to add a fair bit of overhead to the trip. I think with a 9 month old this may be reduced as they can sleep a lot, so you can take them to more places perhaps than a toddler who will need more consideration. But I would still suggest perhaps cutting the trip down a little bit and maybe skipping a couple of destinations. You can see a suggested reduction in the trip itinerary in this comment here:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/10-day-uk-itinerary-public-transport-train-bus/#comment-8660

Hope this helps!

Alana Gaymon says

23rd October 2018 at 12:42 pm

This is a great itinerary! We may need some modifications, but I love the idea of seeing the U.K. by rail. Thanks so much!

23rd October 2018 at 1:04 pm

Our pleasure! Thanks for stopping by and letting us know!

Puspita says

23rd October 2018 at 6:46 am

Hi! This is going to be our first trip to UK and we found your itinerary here is so helpful..very detail and interesting! However, is this itinerary doable with family with young children? I am concerned with the luggages too! Lastly,.. Is it possible (& sensible to go to Edinburg straight from Gatwick airport and then following your itinerary backward all the way down to London ? Thanks a lot for your reply!

23rd October 2018 at 2:06 pm

Hi Puspita,

Delighted to have been able to help. So first, I have to say that Jess and I don’t have kids, so we don’t have first hand experience of travelling with children. That said, speaking to friends with children and other family travel bloggers, you certainly have to adjust your trip pace somewhat to suit their needs, which will vary individually of course. So I would probably advise slowing the pace a little bit, and in this case of this itinerary, perhaps skipping one or two towns so you can travel a bit slower.

Obviously what you choose to leave out is up to you, but you might perhaps focus on Edinburgh, York, Oxford and London as an example, with 2 – 3 days in Edinburgh / London, and 1-2 days in York / Oxford.

You can definitely go straight from Gatwick to Edinburgh. The easiest way is going to be to fly, although of course that is the mode of transport with the most restrictive luggage allowances. Other types of transport such as trains and coaches are less restrictive.

I hope this helps – have a great trip!

27th August 2018 at 5:25 am

Hi guys, thanks for the fantastic info! My wife and I will be visiting Birtain from Canada for 10 days next month and will be virtually mirroring your itinerary. How do you suggest packing for a trip using public transportation? Suitcases or backpacks? And how do you deal with trinkets purchased along the way?

27th August 2018 at 12:27 pm

Our pleasure 🙂 We usually travel with rolling luggage, specifically something like the Osprey Sojourn 60L. The UK is an easy place for rolling luggage, but luggage with slightly larger wheels will be easier to manage we think. We find backpacks are better in countries where there is less paving, but in the UK you can roll your bags pretty much everywhere, so it’s a lot easier. On trains there is nearly always a luggage area either at the end of the carriage or in the middle, whilst buses will have a dedicated luggage area under the passenger area. We’d advise having a smaller bags for your valuables (camera / passport etc), which you can keep with you.

For trinkets… we have two options. We usually try and leave enough space in our bags so they fit in as they go. Alternatively, for larger items it can just be easier to mail these back to yourself, but just be aware of any tax implications or import fees. But we generally try to avoid picking up anything too bulky (hence our extensive collection of fridge magnets)

I hope this helps – have a wonderful trip and do please check back in to let us know how it was!

Richard says

23rd July 2018 at 3:22 am

Hello, Thanks for the wonderful information. As a suggested show to see this summer at the Fringe, stop by the Bedlam Theatre to see Theatre Movement Bazaar’s “Grail Project”. Our son is performing in this play about the King Arther days. This will be his third time at the Fringe as a performer. Your 2 week agenda of London -Edinburgh – Ireland – London is great. We can expand the time along the way to make it work for our 4 weeks. Big question though is it possible to make it work and see all the sites you mention by way of train or bus, or will we need to rent a car? I was hoping not to have to rent a car.

24th July 2018 at 9:44 pm

Hi Richard! Thanks for the recommendation! We’ll do our best to look him up, we’re in Edinburgh the for festival this year 🙂

For the 10 day itinerary here, you can definitely do it by public transport.

For the 14 day itinerary, it is possible for most of it, but the more remote castles, stately homes and national parks would be more of a challenge. No problem though, there are loads of tour companies that run short 1 day or half day tours to many of the attractions listed, so you could take small group tours to some of the attractions and thus circumvent the need to either hire a car, or figure out the (sometimes, rather challenging!) rural public transport system!

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Home » Itinerary » 10 Day UK

10-Day UK Tour Itinerary

Tailored itineraries.

• Private Group Tours

Luxury Vehicles

• Free Cancellation
• 15+ Years Experience

Ten days in the UK is just enough time to visit some of the most iconic sites in England, Scotland, and Ireland. Our ten-day itinerary will see you staying in London, Stratford-Upon-Avon, Liverpool, Newcastle, Edinburgh, and Dublin as you explore the best of the UK with your private guide.

A lot of traveling is involved, but following the 10-day itinerary below will enable you to move between cities in style and comfort with our luxury vehicles and driver. To discuss booking this trip with our team or to request that our tour planning specialists amend any aspect, then simply complete our online inquiry form.

Our 10 Day private tour includes:

• London Highlights
• Canterbury & Cliffs of Dover
• Oxford & Bath
• Liverpool & Manchester
• Loch Lomond & Glasgow
• Private Guides
• Luxury Transfers
• Expert Insight

Day 1: London Tour

The first day of your 10 UK tour itinerary begins in London, The Capital of England, and a global hub of culture, architecture, and art, not to mention the city most associated with the Monarchy and associated Royal Palaces and scandals!

On your walking tour of central London your private guide will take you to explore:

Buckingham Palace

The Queen’s official London residence and the focal point of most national celebrations. Buckingham Palace may be the most photographed Royal Palace in the world, so makes for a fantastic starting point for your walking tour of London.

Containing a remarkable 775 rooms, there are specific times of the year when the Palace opens to allow private tours of the remarkable State Rooms & Royal art treasures. Contact our tour planners for more details.

Tower of London

The medieval structure has perhaps the most fascinating history of any building in the UK.  Originally constructed as a Castle and defensive fortress under the command of William The Conqueror in 1066, throughout the centuries it has functioned as a palace, a prison and executioners, and an arsenal. 

Currently home to the Crown Jewels, the living quarters of the Yeomen Warders, and apparently 13 ghosts! The Tower of London is simply a must-see on your tour of London!

Westminster Abbey, Big Ben & Houses of Parliament

With 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites within 2 minutes walking distance, this tour can be considered an exploration of the seat of power in the UK. From the Abbey which has been the Royal coronation site since 1066 to the Palace of Westminster and Big Ben, where you can view a parliamentary debate. 

Guided tours of the houses of Westminster are available at certain times of the year. Contact our team for more information .

St Paul's Cathedral

Christopher Wren’s greatest creation, the Baroque style Cathedral was constructed after the 1666 Great Fire of London destroyed the original. Alongside a guided tour of the art, architecture, and hidden histories of St Pauls, you can climb the 528 steps to the top of the dome for a wonderful panoramic view of the city.

Day 2: White cliffs of Dover & Canterbury Day Trip

After your full day walking tour of central London your next day will be spent with your driver guide as you travel to the White Cliffs of Dover, and discover highlights from the town of Canterbury in the comfort, style, and luxury of our air-conditioned executive class vehicle.

White Cliffs of Dover

One of the most stunning natural landscapes in the UK. Taking a coastal walking route along the Cliff path provides stunning views across the English channel.

Canterbury Town

Explore the town of Canterbury – with a gorgeous mixture of cobbled streets, Roman and Gothic architecture, and featuring no less than three UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Canterbury Cathedral

One of the oldest and most significant Christian Cathedrals in the world, Canterbury enjoys a fascinating history having been of prominence throughout Roman times, The English Reformation, and in the modern day as the seat of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Your guide will describe historic tales, and fascinating historical figures that have contributed to the lore of the Cathedral, including the murder of Thomas Becket in 1170, as you explore the Gothic architecture and gorgeous stained glass windows of the Cathedral.

Canterbury Castle

Explore the ruins of this 11th Century Norman era castle with your private guide.

Your accommodation for the evening will be back in your central London hotel.

Day 3: Oxford - Bath - Stratford-Upon-Avon

On day 3 of your 10-day itinerary, it is time to move on from London and begin making our way through the rest of the UK.

Your driver guide will collect you and your travel cases in the morning as you set off to visit three of the most iconic destinations in all of England, the prestigious Oxford University, the gorgeous Cotswolds Villages, and Shakespeare country, the town of Stratford-Upon-Avon.

Oxford University

Oxford University is not just one campus, instead, it is made up of over 30 colleges and halls spread out across the city. Our day trip has been designed for you to visit the most spectacular and significant sites including:

Christ Church College

Alongside the Cathedral and cloisters, Christ Church demands your attention due to the collections of Old Masters paintings and exhibitions in the Picture Gallery.

Exeter College

Perhaps the most emblematic and representative of the gorgeous Victorian Neo-Gothic architectural style that Oxford is associated with, and one of the oldest as well having been constructed in 1314. Inside Exeter College, you will find ‘The Adoration of the Magi’ tapestry by William Morris.

The Divinity School & the Bodleian Library

The largest and second oldest library in the UK, walk in the footsteps of luminaries such as Oscar Wilde, C.S Lewis, J.R.R Tolkien, and many more who have sat and studied here.

Cotswolds Countryside

Embark on a driver-guided tour through the enchanting Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the heart of England. Steeped in history and adorned with charming villages built from golden Cotswold stone, your guide will share tales of the region’s rich past and cultural heritage.

Begin your journey with a visit to the picturesque village of Bibury, often referred to as the most beautiful village in England. Wander the streets and marvel at the iconic Arlington Row, a series of 17th-century weavers’ cottages that have graced many a postcard.

Next, travel to the historic town of Burford, known as the Gateway to the Cotswolds. Explore its medieval architecture, independent shops, and the beautiful St. John the Baptist Church, dating back to the 12th Century.

Bourton-on-the-Water

Continue to the charming village of Bourton-on-the-Water, dubbed the “Venice of the Cotswolds” for its elegant low bridges and gently flowing River Windrush. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to stroll along the picturesque riverside and visit the Cotswold Motoring Museum, home to an impressive collection of vintage vehicles.

Stow-on-the-Wold

Your tour will culminate with a visit to Stow-on-the-Wold, the highest town in the Cotswolds. Immerse yourself in its rich history as you explore the town’s market square, surrounded by beautiful honey-colored buildings, and enjoy a traditional English afternoon tea in one of its cozy tearooms.

Stratford-Upon-Avon - Shakespeare Country

Discover the many surviving buildings and sights that would have been so familiar to Shakespeare with your guided tour of Stratford-Upon-Avon. Starting with the house he was born in, to his school and the church where he was christened, married, and buried!

Locations on the Shakespeare Tour:

• The house Shakespeare was born and raised in.
• Holy Trinity Church & Shakespeare’s headstone.
• Stratford Grammar School.
• Tudor buildings including Anne Hathaway’s cottage and others of significance to The Bard.

Your accommodation for the evening will be in Stratford-Upon-Avon. Your tour planning specialist will consult with you to determine the style of hotel to best suit your tastes. Would you prefer a character property with Georgian features or a modern luxury hotel spa? With our local knowledge and insight, anything is possible.

Day 4: Liverpool

Rising to prominence both domestically and internationally during the Industrial Revolution, Liverpool’s docklands were a key port for imports and exports that led to the city gaining the moniker of the second city of the British Empire. Liverpool’s regeneration in the post-industrial era as a city of culture was spearheaded by The Beatles’ impact on the World, recognized in 2008 as a European Capital of culture with an official designation by the EU, and continues to this day as a creative and vibrant artistic hub.

While spending the day with your private guide as you discover the best of one of England’s cultural hotspots you will visit:

Mersey River Cruise

 A fantastic way to orientate yourself with the city and learn about its history. On your boat trip, your guide will provide a commentary full of war tales, smuggling stories, and how the swinging sixties revolutionized the city. Some of the landmarks viewed during the ride include

• Christ the King Cathedral
• Liverpool Cathedral
• Royal Liver Building 360
• Museum of Liverpool
• Tate Liverpool

Royal Albert Dock & Merseyside Maritime Museum

Formerly the industrial center of Liverpool and much of the British Empire, the Docks are now a cultural hub in the city and the site of the Maritime Museum and The Beatles Story exhibition. Allow your guide to transport you through time from the Docks’ beginnings in 1846, through the industrial modernization of the 19th Century, and Liverpool’s role in World Wars 1 & 2.

The Beatles Story

This award-winning exhibition documents the band’s meteoric rise to fame and era-defining success through recreations of key locations from the band’s career including The Casbah Club, The Cavern Club, and Abbey Road Studios.

For Beatles fanatics, we can arrange tours of Penny Lane, Strawberry Field plus John Lennon and Paul McCartney’s childhood homes, and the Cavern Club where the band made their first performance.

As you might expect from a city that combines historical significance with an outgoing and outward-looking character, gastronomy options for your evening meal range from classic Scouse fair like Liverpool Meat Stew, Wet Nelly – a type of English Fruit Cake, and Liverpool Tarts all the way to modern fusion restaurants and examples of worldwide cuisine across the city.

Your tour planners will help you arrange a suitable venue for your dining experience, evening entertainment, and accommodation.

Day 5: Manchester & The Lake District

Bid farewell to the charming city of Liverpool and venture into the heart of North West England with your expert driver guide.

Discover the rich history and modern marvels of Manchester, a thriving metropolis known for its industrial heritage and vibrant cultural scene. Then, immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Lake District, an enchanting region where serene lakes and majestic fells inspire awe and wonder.

On your tour of Manchester, you will enjoy guided tours of:

The John Rylands Library

Manchester is a recognized UNESCO city of literature, and that is in no small part thanks to the rare books and manuscripts found within the remarkable Gothic architecture of the John Rylands Library within Manchester University. A must-visit destination on your tour, the library contains the ‘Manchester Fragment’, the earliest known fragment of the New Testament, part of St. John’s gospel.

Manchester Cathedral

A Grade 1 listed Masterpiece, Manchester Cathedral provided the stage that much of the city’s story and history has been played ever since Henry V decreed a church should be built here in 1421. The cathedral is the oldest building in Manchester and the Medieval gothic structure combines elegance and beauty of the stained glass windows and spirituality with the spooky vast underground network of crypts to explore with your private guide.

Your driver guide will now take you through The lake District National Park. Highlights from here include:

Manchester Museum of Science and Industry

Explore the Fascinating World of Science at the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI).

On this guided tour, you’ll traverse the historic site of the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway station and witness the awe-inspiring machines that once powered the Industrial Revolution. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase Manchester’s scientific and technological contributions to the world, from the development of the first programmable computer to the city’s vital role in the textile industry. This immersive experience will inspire curiosity and appreciation for the ingenuity that has shaped our modern world.

Discover Street Art and Creativity in the Northern Quarter

Embrace the vibrant spirit of Manchester’s Northern Quarter on a guided tour of this eclectic neighborhood, brimming with creativity and artistic expression.

Wander through a maze of narrow streets adorned with impressive street art, showcasing the city’s passion for urban culture and self-expression. As you explore this bohemian enclave, your guide will share the stories behind the murals and introduce you to the local artists who have left their mark on the cityscape. In addition to its visual appeal, the Northern Quarter boasts an array of independent shops, quirky cafes, and live music venues that add to its irresistibly dynamic atmosphere.

Lake Windermere

Enjoy the lush mountain landscapes while your guide describes legends and myths around the biggest lake in all of England on a boat cruise across Windermere.

Grasmere Village

Visit Dove Cottage where the great poet William Wordsworth, author of “As I wandered lonely as a Cloud” lived, and pay a visit to the original Grasmere Gingerbread shop.

St Oswald’s church

Where you will find Wordsworth and his wife’s tombstones, and just behind the church on the banks of the River Rothay is Wordsworth’s Daffodil Garden.

Your accommodation for the evening will be in the Lake District.

Day 6: Arrival in Scotland & Edinburgh Tour

Today you will cross the border into Scotland, the land of Whisky distilleries, Haggis Neeps & Tatties, glorious Lochs, and magical Castles.

On your driver-guided tour from the Lake District to Edinburgh, the perfect place to stop for lunch while admiring the scenery is Moffat, a picturesque town in southern Scotland.

Located halfway between the two destinations, Moffat provides a serene break from the drive. Visit the charming Waterside Café, nestled along the banks of the River Annan. The café offers delicious locally-sourced dishes, catering to a variety of dietary preferences. Enjoy a leisurely meal on their outdoor terrace, where you can take in the idyllic views of the river, the lush greenery, and the quaint stone bridge.

The town boasts delightful, historic architecture and beautiful gardens, perfect for a post-lunch stroll. The surrounding landscape showcases rolling hills and picturesque valleys, providing a stunning backdrop for your dining experience.

Edinburgh in the Afternoon

Welcome to the Capital of Scotland! Did you know that over 75% of the buildings in the city are “listed” meaning that they are protected for being of particular historical and/or architectural interest and significance? Your first evening exploring the most significant of these locations with a walking tour of Edinburgh’s Medieval Old Town before we delve into another of Scotland’s great institutions with a Whisky discovery and tasting experience.

Guided Walking Tour of Edinburgh’s Old Town

Get to know the history of the city as you walk its cobbled streets and narrow lanes. Some of the sites you will discuss with your guide are St Giles Cathedral where you will discover its links to John Knox and learn why it is known as the “Cradle of Presbyterianism”, Greyfriars Kirk & Graveyard, and the monument to Greyfriars Bobby, the Scottish Terrier who spent 14 years guarding his owner’s grave and the.

Scotch Whisky Experience

In the heart of Edinburgh’s Old Town, The Scotch Whisky Experience opened in 1987 when the Scottish Whisky industry combined to fund this showcase celebrating the history and development of Scotch whisky.

Your tour features an interactive trip through the production of Scotch, a session exploring the regional variations in scent and flavor between the different Scotch regions, and of course a tasting experience within the walls of the World’s Largest Collection of Scotch Whisky.

Your accommodation for the evening will be in the center of the old town.

Day 7: Edinburgh Highlights Tour

Today you can take advantage of being able to spend the whole day in Edinburgh by visiting the most famous and iconic sites in the capital. Your guided tours for the day include:

Climb the Walter Scott Monument

The 200-foot high monument to the author of legendary Scottish literature like Ivanhoe, Rob Roy, and Waverley stands rises imperiously into the sky just a stone’s throw from Waverley station and is decorated with 64 characters representing characters from his books and poems.

Arthur’s Seat

Enjoy a trip to the summit of Arthur’s Seat, the peak of a group of hills formed by an extinct Volcano that provides the finest views across the city.

Edinburgh Castle

The most famous landmark in Edinburgh, discover the fascinating historical tales and stories of scandal and intrigue surrounding the many famous figures intrinsic to the history of the castle such as Mary Queen of Scots, the Child King James the 6th, Oliver Cromwell, and many more.

Exhibits on display here include the oldest Crown Jewels in Britain – the Honors of Scotland, and The Stone of Destiny, an ancient symbol of Scotland’s monarchy where rulers were crowned.

Holyrood Palace

The Queen’s Scottish Palace and official residence in Scotland, crowning the iconic Royal Mile thoroughfare which runs from the Castle to the Palace.

Edinburgh Dungeon

The gruesome twosome Burke and Hare, infamous cannibal Sawney Bean, and The Witch of the Potterrow Port Agnes Finnie to name but a few, Edinburgh is a city with a dark and often bloody past and the Edinburgh Dungeon with its interactive live-action exhibitions is the most fun way to reveal this aspect of the city’s character.

Day 8: Loch Lomond - Glasgow

Your itinerary for today will see you travel from the Capital with your driver guide to Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city via one of the country’s most revered natural beauty spots.

Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

The largest lake in the entirety of the UK by surface area, our tour planning specialists can arrange a private cruise along the loch to the waterfalls and woodland walks of Inversnaid where you can keep an eye out for the Wild Scottish Deer and wildlife roaming free.

After your Loch Lomond experience, you will rejoin your driver guide for the brisk 50-minute drive to Glasgow which is generally thought of as being Scotland’s cultural hub.

Some notable stops or attractions you might want to visit include:

• Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum
• Glasgow Cathedral
• Glasgow University
• The boutiques and artisan stores of Glasgow’s West End
• Riverside Museum

Your accommodation will be in Glasgow for the evening in advance of your flight to Dublin from Glasgow airport the following morning.

Day 9 & 10: Dublin

After a short 55-minute flight, the remaining 2 days of your 10-day UK tour itinerary will be spent discovering the best of Dublin, the capital of the Republic of Ireland. With its rich mix of history, tradition, and culture It seems like almost every building in Dublin has a story to tell.

Your driver guide will reveal the historic tales, fascinating characters, and distinctive Irish culture behind:

O’Connell Street & The General Post Office

A must-see for anyone with an interest in Irish history or the Easter uprising. The GPO was the spot where the Proclamation was read in 1916, for the very first time.

Trinity College

The oldest and perhaps most architecturally beautiful university in Ireland, founded in 1546 by King Henry VIII you will also find the hallowed ‘Book of Kells’ from 384 AD within its walls.

The Doors Of Dublin

You’ll never see two identical doors as you wander through Dublin city, and their unique and colorful charm gives the city an unmistakable character.

Guinness Storehouse

The homeland of Ireland’s national drink. We don’t believe that Guinness tastes the same anywhere else in the world, and you find out if you agree or not by pouring your own pint in the factory where it all started.

Whitefriar Street Church

Romantics will wish to visit the place of rest for the patron saint of lovers, St Valentine himself at Whitefriar Street Church.

Temple Bar District

Enjoy the traditional bars and music in the city’s Temple Bar district.

Irish Immigration Museum

See if you can trace your roots back to Ireland at the Irish Immigration Museum.

Kilmainham Gaol

Built in 1796 it served as a prison in former times where many Irish revolutionaries were imprisoned and executed by the British.

Dublin Castle

Commissioned by King John all the way back in 1204, and although the majority of what you can see now was actually constructed in the 18th century, the Record Tower from that era is still intact.

The castle is still in use for formal occasions and functions by the Irish government today and tours of the grounds are available at regular intervals.

Upon completion of your Dublin tour itinerary, your driver guide will transport you to Dublin airport and bid you a fond farewell as you leave the UK and Ireland behind and return home with a heart full of divine memories that will remain with you for a lifetime.

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An Epic 10 Day UK Itinerary for England and Wales

There are so many incredible things to see in the United Kingdom, it can be hard to decide what to include on a 10 day UK itinerary. When we first started planning our visit, we spent hours trying to decide whether to visit Scotland, spend the whole time in England, or visit Wales. We put this itinerary together this London to Wales tour based on that research and loved getting to spend some time in London and get out into the countryside for some hiking and exploring.

This 10 day UK itinerary in Wales and England is for you if you want to get a taste of London and then explore the more wild side of Wales including several hikes along the coast finishing with some time a small English countryside town. We did this itinerary as a family of 5 when our kids were 8, 11, and 11, but this would make a great trip with younger kids or just adults.

Some of the highlights of this itinerary include:

• Seeing the most famous sites in London
• Windsor Castle
• Pembrokeshire
• Hiking and biking in Snowdonia
• Visiting the Peaks District

Read more below on exactly how to take this 10 day England and Wales itinerary as well as general information to help you plan your visit to the United Kingdom . You can also find suggestions on how to lengthen or shorten this itinerary based on how much time you have. You can easily adjust this to a 9 day UK itinerary or add a few days to make an 11 or 12 day itinerary.

Overview of 10 Day UK Itinerary for England and Wales

Below is a snapshot of the itinerary broke up into days. This itinerary assumes that you will arrive in England the day before the itinerary starts. It is possible to arrive early on the first day, but you may have to adjust your plans a bit. This Wales and England 10 day itinerary also assumes that you will either leave in the evening of day 10 or the following day.

• Day 1: London
• Day 2: London

Day 3: Stonehenge to Tenby to Pembrokeshire

• Day 4: Pembrokeshire, hike,
• Day 5: hike Drive to Dolgellau
• Day 6: Hike Cadair Idris
• Day 7: Morning bike and explore to barmouth
• Day 8: Drive Dollgelau to Miller’s Dale – stop by Lakes
• Day 9: Chee Dale Stepping Stones – explore Miller’s Dale

Day 10 Windsor Castle

How to Use this England and Wales Itinerary

You can use this itinerary by booking this exact itinerary or select part of this trip. You can also use just the Wales portion of this trip if you are trying to put together a 5 days in Wales itinerary. This itinerary also assumes you will be visiting during the warmer months, but it is possible adjust to do this in the winter, you will just need to dress appropriately and keep an eye of the weather during your hikes.

Map of 10 Day UK Itinerary in England and Wales

Complete Details of this 10 day UK Itinerary in England and Wales

Day 1 and 2: london.

Start your 10 day UK itinerary with 2 full days in London. London is an incredible and large city, and it’s hard to see everything even with a week in town. With 2 days in London, you can see the highlights and most popular sites. Both days are very full, so you may decide to leave off one or more of the sites based on the time and your preference.

For your first day, start the morning at Buckingham Palace for the changing of the guard.

If you have time before the ceremony, you can enjoy some time in Hyde Park. You will want to confirm that the ceremony is happening on the day you are visiting (you can see the schedule here ). After the changing of the guard, wander through Trafalgar Square and strop for lunch in Covent Garden. In the afternoon, head towards the Thames and cross Westminster Bridge. There are 4 good sites right nearby. Catch a look at Big Ben, Westminster Abbey and Parliament or you can cross the river and take a ride on the London Eye.

At this point it is likely late afternoon. Hop of one of the Thames River cruises for a break from walking and to see some of the more famous sites from the river. Get off at the Tower of London. If there is still time, take a tour of the Tower of London and walk across Tower Bridge before grabbing dinner along the waterfront.

For day 2 in London , you will enjoy some of the museums, and markets. Start your day at Camden market before making your way to the British Museum. London has several excellent museums to choose from, many of which are free. The National Gallery is also a great choice.

In the afternoon you can choose from several activities. We suggest trying out one of the London High teas, or if you are visiting with kids you can go to the London Zoo or Harry Potter World or take a Harry Potter tour .

Should you take a tour of London?

To see everything you want to see in London your days will be jam packed. If you want to make sure to see everything and you are willing to pay a little extra, taking a tour of London may be the best option. In fact, most tours will only cost a little more and can actually be a good deal. You can find lots of tours at Viator .

Where to Stay in London

London is large and there are many options for places to stay. The best place to stay with limited time is right downtown. You can search for a hotel downtown through booking.com , but we also recommend the London Marriot Hotel County Hall : This is a great location right along the Thames. You can easily walk to many of the most popular sites and you have great views right from the hotel. You can also find several other Marriot hotels in the city if you like Marriot.

On the third day of your 10 day UK itinerary, you will need to rent a car. You can do this right away when you arrive in London, but parking can be difficult, so if possible wait to rent a car until day 3. We had good luck finding rental cars through rentalcars.com .

Try to get an early start and head out of the city to Stonehenge. The drive takes about 2 hours depending on traffic. You will want to make sure you book your tickets to Stonehenge in advance. Try to reserve one of the earlier time slots to avoid the crowds. You should plan to spend about 2 hours at Stonehenge and in the visitor center.

After exploring Stonehenge, continue driving west into Wales to get to Pembroke. This drive takes about 4 hours and there are lots of interesting places to explore along the way if you have the interest and time, including Bath and Cardiff.

Once you arrive in Pembrokshire, you can check into your hotel and grab a bite to eat.

Where to Stay in Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire is the entire region of southwest Wales and you can find several great towns to use as a base for the next 2 nights. We stayed in Millford Haven, but recommend looking closer to Pembroke or in the cute town of Tenby.

The Burrows Bed and Breakfast : A great location and lovely hotel in Pembroke.

The Coach House Hotel: Once a medieval coaching inn, you can walk into Pembroke from this historic hotel.

There are many excellent places to stay in Tenby – you can see some of the best places here.

Day 4: Pembrokeshire

Start the day with an incredible coastal hike that includes a visit to Barafundle Bay and through the Bosherston Lakes. This is a roughly 6 mile hike and is one of our favorite coastal hikes anywhere. You can stop at the café for a mid-morning snack and even take a swim if you are feeling daring. After your hike, make sure to visit St. Govan’s Castle.

Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful village of Tenby. You can grab lunch here and visit the beach if the weather is warm. In the late afternoon visit Pembroke Castle. We attended a Shakespeare play in the castle and loved watching the sun set in the castle.

Day 5: Drive to Dolgellau

Get a morning start and head towards the Welsh town of Dolgellau. On the way stop for another coastal hike. The Pembrokeshire Coastal Hike follows the coast of Wales for 186 miles and you can find many incredible hikes along the route. We did a section of the Pembrokeshire Coastal hike from Cwmtydu Cove but truly any stretch of this trail is worth walking.

Finish the day by arriving in Dolgellau. We loved this little town and spent several days here. It is a small town, so if you are looking for more to do, you may want to consider one of the bigger towns in the area. We found Dolgellau the perfect jumping off point for exploring Snowdonia.

Where to Stay in Dolgellau

Most of the places to stay in Dolgellau are small apartments, houses, or glamping opportunities. Below are a few of the best options:

Farm Stay Snowdonia Coast:  This is a fun and unique stay on a farm.

Try Clamping on the Coast:  This is a fun alternative to camping – these little huts/pods are a beautiful place to stay

Dwy Olwyn : This is a lovely little hotel in the country with a terrace and a garden just a 10 minute walk from town.

Elden Row : These apartments are a great option and centrally located in town

Day 6 and 7 Hike Cadair Idris and Bike the Mawddach Trail to Barmouth

For your two days in Snowdonia, you will spend 1 day hiking and 1 day biking. You can switch up the days depending on the weather.

Cadair Idris is the second tallest mountain in Snowdonia and hangs right over the town of Dolgellau. This is an incredible mountain hike. There are several different trails you can take to reach the summit. We took the easiest route up the Pony Path.

Learn more about hiking Cadair Idris.

For your other day in Dolgellau, rent bikes right in town and bike to Barmouth of the Mawddach Trail. This 9 mile trail is wide and easy to ride and takes you through the Estuary to the town and beach of Barmouth. Once you arrive in this coastal town you can grab lunch and enjoy walking around and exploring the beach. We had a windy/rainy day so we spent part of the day at the arcade in town.

Day 8: Drive Dolgellau to Miller’s Dale

Today you will drive from Dolgellau to the quaint town of Miller’s Dale located in the heart of the Peak’s District in England. The drive takes about 3 hours but you can make a day of it by stopping at Cregennen Lakes or the city of Manchester.

Once you arrive in Miller’s Dale and settle in, you can explore the area on foot. There are many excellent walking trails in the area.

Where to Stay in Miller’s Dale

The best hotels in Miller’s Dale and small with loads of character. You can see a list of some of the best Miller’s Dale Lodging options here.

Angler’s Rest: This is a cute little spot in a great location. We didn’t stay here but we did eat here twice during our visit.

YHA Ravenstor: This is a beautiful hotel that sits on 70 acres overlooking the river.

Day 9: Explore the Peaks District: Chee Dale Stepping Stones

There are so many excellent hiking trail near Miller’s Dale. We loved the hike on the Chee Dale Stepping Stones and spent the morning here and the afternoon hiking some of the other nearby trails.

You can see more details on hiking the Chee Dale Stepping Stones as a loop Trail.

For your last day of this 10 day UK Itinerary, drive south and stop at Windsor Castle. The drive from Miller’s Dale to Windsor takes about 3.5 hours. You can stop in the town of Windsor for lunch and then take a tour of the castle. I recommend the audio tour to get the most out of your visit. You can see more about visiting Windsor Castle.

After your visit to Windsor, it’s time to head on your way. If you have a late day flight, you can head to the airport.

We did almost this exact itinerary during the summer of 2019 and have completely updated the information since then. We’ve now travelled extensively in Europe and my kids still remember this 10 day UK Itinerary as one of their favorite trips.

How to Adjust this Itinerary

How to shorten this 10 day uk itinerary.

If you don’t have enough days for this 10 day UK itinerary, it’s easy to keep the general locations and shorten it by one day. The first option is to spend only 2 nights in Dolgellau. After you finish the activities on the 2nd day in Dolgellau, simply leave mid-afternoon and drive straight to Miller’s Dale.

If you only have 1 week in England and Wales, you will have to cut out one of the smaller towns. After visiting Dolgellau – simply drive straight back to London instead of stopping at Miller’s Dale. If you have time, stop at Windsor Castle, otherwise head right to the airport.

How to Lengthen this to a 11 or 12 Day UK Itinerary

If you have more time, there are so many ways to make this into a longer itinerary. You can easily spend more time exploring Northern Wales or you could add some time on the southern coast of England. The final suggestion for lengthening your trip is to spend an extra day in London. There is so much to do here that 3 or 4 days in London is ideal.

5 Days in Wales Itinerary

Another option is to use just the Wales part of this itinerary as a 5 day Wales Itinerary. To do this, basically use the itinerary above for just the days 3-8. Plan to spend 2 days in Pembrokeshire and 3 days in Snowdonia. This gives you time to hike on both the Pembrokeshire Coastal Trail as well as some of the mountains and lakes in Snowdonia.

Things to Know When Visiting England and Wales

How many days do you need for an england and wales itinerary.

We love visiting countries for 10 days. With just a week it feels like by the time you get into the flow, the week is over. With 10 days, you can enjoy exploring London and spend a full week in the countryside. With 2 weeks, it’s possible to visit Scotland as well.

When is the Best time of Year for this 10 Day UK Itinerary?

The UK is a great year round destination, however if you are planning a lot of outdoor activities, the spring, summer and fall are best. Summer tends to be the busiest time of year in London and England in general. If possible visit during May/June or Sept/Oct.

We visited at the very end of August and found the temperatures comfortable and the crowds low.

Driving in England and Wales

For this itinerary you will need to rent a car. In the UK, you will drive on the left side of the road and you will also sit on the opposite side of the car to drive. Many of the rental cars are automatic so you will need to shift with your opposite hand if you are used to driving elsewhere. This is something to be aware of when you rent a car here.

In addition, many of the road (especially in Wales) were very narrow. It would be almost impossible to drive a large car on some of these roads. When you are passing other cars, take your time and you will be fine.

You can search for reasonable car rentals at rentalcars.com

What to Pack for this 10 Day UK Itinerary

Even if you visit during the summer, you will want to pack plenty of layers and rain gear for this 10 day UK itinerary. We had generally good weather, but hiking along the Welsh coast was often cool and were glad to have rain gear for warmth.

In general I would pack several pairs of hiking shirts , both long and short sleeved as well as shorts and pants. For London, you want some clothes that are comfortable to walk around town in.

For the hiking trails, you should have a pair of hiking boots and another pair of comfortable shoes if these get wet. Pack rain pants and a jacket and one extra warm layer. Don’t forget to pack a bathing suit in case you get a hot day and want to go for a swim!

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About the Author: Gretchen Stuppy Carlson

A passionate adventurer and travel agent dedicated to getting families outside and exploring. Gretchen is an expert in adventure travel with 15+ years of experience working in outdoor education and travelling with her own family.

View all posts by Gretchen Stuppy Carlson | Website

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Legendary 70s rock band announce they will retire after summer tour

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Status Quo have announced that, after more than 60 years in the music business, they’ll be hanging up their guitars for good.

The British rock band, formed in 1962 as The Paladins, had the majority of their success through the 1970s and 1980s , scoring a UK number one single, 22 UK top 10 hits, and four number one albums.

Quo, as they were known to fans, initially broke up in 1984, but reunited to open the legendary Live Aid concert in 1985 – the performance was so well received that they reformed properly and were successful for years afterwards.

But now the time has come for the current five-piece to call it a day , with guitarist and lead singer Francis Rossi saying their ongoing tour might well be their last.

Rossi, who has been part of the group since 1962, said: ‘I don’t think we will go again. And as far as the rest of the band are concerned it’s the last tour too. I just can’t see us doing it one more time.’

He continued to The Mirror : ‘I didn’t want to put this current tour out saying it’s the last one ever. I did [that] once and was then coerced into coming back, but that’s another whole other f*****g story.’

The band are currently in the middle of what will now be their last ever tour, with the next shows planned for venues in Germany, before the band goes to Switzerland in July.

After doing a tour of northern Europe and Scandinavia, Quo will reach the UK, where dates in Elgin, Halifax, Margate, Liverpool, and Somerset are pencilled in for August.

First up is the Elgin date at the MacMoray Festival on August 11 before a show at Halifax’s Piece Hall on August 13, with August 15 seeing the band play Margate’s Dreamland.

The town of Bootle in Liverpool will then welcome Status Quo to its Salt and Tar venue on August 16.

Tickets are still available for all remaining UK dates, with the last ever live show by Quo set to take place at Vivary Park in Taunton on August 23, 2024.

While the band formed in 1962, Status Quo didn’t go by their eventual name until 1967, calling themselves The Paladins, The Spectres, and Traffic Jam until then.

By the time the band decided on a name and started to have success, the members were Rossi, Alan Lancaster, John Coughlan, Roy Lynes, and Rick Parfitt.

After starting out as a psychedelic pop rock band, Quo updated their sound and moved more towards hard rock stylings. Their fifth album Pilvedriver brought them sudden success in 1972.

It was then that Quo began to experience the most of their success, with hit songs Caroline, Down Down, and Whatever You Want all hitting the top 10 as they became one of the biggest rock bands in the country.

After initially splitting in 1984, the band were convinced to get back together for Live Aid – the huge charity concert at Wembley Stadium – in the summer of 1985.

Quo opened up the concert, taking stage at 12.01pm and blasting out Rockin All Over the World – a cover of a John Fogerty song which was one of their biggest hits.

In 2021, co-founder of the group Lancaster died at the age of 72 following a battle with multiple sclerosis, while Parfitt died from sepsis in 2016 – he was 68.

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If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE : One of the most famous thrillers of all time has just been added to Netflix

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Tour de France Stage 11 Preview: A Tough Day of Climbing Awaits

The second longest stage of the Tour will likely see a huge breakaway—and a big yellow jersey battle behind them.

Stage 11 - Évaux-les-Bains to Le Lioran (211km) - Wednesday, July 10

Beginning in Évaux-les-Bains, a first-time Tour de France stage town, Stage 11 heads due south through the Creuse department and into the Puy-de-Dôme department, at which point the riders might be able to see the department’s namesake ascent—a steep climb to the top of an extinct volcano that made a return in last year’s Tour de France after a 35-year absence—off in the distance to their left.

The first hour of the stage should be fast, as the battle to join the day’s breakaway will be fierce. Teams targeting the stage win might try and send at least two riders up the road—one to go for the win and the other to help—so it could be a large group that eventually pulls away once the GC teams feels that the right mix of out-of-contention riders has escaped.

This is a big day for Norway’s Jonas Abrahamsen (Uno-X Mobility)—who’s been wearing the polka dot jersey as the leader of the Tour’s King of the Mountains competition since Stage 1. The 28-year-old currently leads the competition by 13 points, but with another 24 points available over the course of the day’s six categorized climbs, another rider could become a threat if Abrahamsen doesn’t go on the attack to defend his advantage.

Once the breakaway has been established, the race should settle down as the riders cover a series of rolling roads through the day’s Intermediate Sprint—in Bourg-Lastic, 65km into the stage—and then over two Category 4 climbs midway through the stage. With the sprinters’ teams treating this like a rest day–and the GC teams saving their energy for the four categorized climbs inside the final 45km of the stage—don’t be surprised if the breakaway’s lead approaches ten minutes or more.

The finale begins with the Category 3 Col de Néronne, a short (3.1km) but super-steep (9.1 percent average gradient) climb that will really hurt the riders as the rhythm of the stage shifts, forcing them off of their large chainrings and onto their smaller ones. The road flattens out at the top of the Néronne as the riders cross a short plateau before a brief descent takes them to the base of the day’s biggest climb, the Category 1 Puy Mary.

The Puy Mary has hosted the Tour de France on several occasions, most recently in 2020 when it served as a summit finish on Stage 13. A breakaway took the spoils that day, but behind the escapees, the GC battled erupted as well–which was fitting as the Puy Mary is one of the many extinct volcanoes that inhabit the region. The breakaway will certainly have been blown apart by the Puy Mary’s steep upper slopes–the final kilometer alone has an average gradient of 14 percent–with only the day’s strongest riders continuing on to contest the final two climbs and fight for the stage win.

A technical 11km descent takes the riders from the top of the Puy Mary down to the base of the day’s penultimate climb: the Category 2 Col de Pertus (4.4km at 7.9 percent average gradient). This is another short, punchy ascent, and there are 8, 5, and 2 bonus seconds available to the first three riders over the summit.

From the top of the Col de Pertus there are only 14.6km left in the stage, with about 5km of descending before the day’s final climb: the Category 3 Col de Font-de-Cère. This is probably the easiest climb of the final four, but it comes after 200km of racing and brings the day’s total elevation gain up to a whopping 4,350m.

The finish lines sits less than 3km from the top, with a flat kilometer over the top of the climb followed by a shirt descent to the red kite with a kilomter to go. The final kilometer drags uphill to the finish line in Le Lioran, a ski resort in the Massif Central that last hosted the Tour in 2016.

Stages through the Massif Central region are often among the hottest in the Tour, but that won’t be the case on Wednesday with sunny skies and temperatures expected to be in the low- to mid-80s.

Riders to Watch

In 2020—when Stage 13 finished atop the Puy Mary—EF Education won the day with Colombia’s Daniel Martínez (who now rides for Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe) winning the stage. The team put multiple riders in the 17-rider breakaway that day, and it paid off in the end. Look for the team to employ similar tactics on Wednesday, with Ireland’s Ben Healy, Ecuador’s Richard Carapaz , and American Neilson Powless all contenders on a stage with a finish as hard as this one.

The final hour of the stage has a profile that looks a lot like the finish of an Ardennes Classic, with a string of short, punchy climbs that could’ve come right out of races like Flèche Wallonne or Liège–Bastogne–Liège. That makes Great Britain’s Stephen Williams (Israel-Premier Tech)—who won this year’s Flèche Wallonne —another rider to watch on Stage 11. France’s Romain Bardet (dsm-firmenich PostNL)—the surprise winner of Stage 1—finished second at this year’s Liège–Bastogne–Liège and could be targeting a second stage win here.

And last but not least–at least as far as the stage victory is concerned–keep an eye on France’s Valentin Madouas (Groupama-FDJ). The Frenchman sits 17 points behind Abrahamsen in the Tour’s King of the Mountains competition and could go on the attack in search of both the stage win and the polka dot jersey.

Behind the breakaway, Stage 11 could become an important day for the Tour’s GC contenders. Slovenia’s Tadej Pogačar (UAE Team Emirates)—a two-time Liège–Bastogne–Liège winner—is likely licking his lips at the stage’s rugged finale, with lots of places from which he could launch an attack to try and extend his lead.

Denmark’s Jonas Vingegaard (Visma-Lease a Bike) will need to be at his best at the end of another stage that’s not entirely suited to his strengths. But if he holds on, he’ll find more favored terrain in the high mountains that come later in the Tour.

How to Watch Stage 11 of the Tour de France

You can stream Stage 11 of the 2024 Tour de France on NBC’s Peacock ($5.99/month or $59.99/year). If you’re looking for ad-free coverage, you’ll need a subscription to Peacock Premium Plus, which runs $11.99 per month or $119.99 for the year.

The stage has an earlier finish than most—the riders are expected to arrive in Le Lioran a little after 11:00 a.m. EDT—but with four tough climbs inside the final 50km, the final 75 minutes of the race will be exciting.

If you can, we suggest tuning in around at about 9:45 a.m. EDT–just as the race hits the first of the day’s final four climbs: the Category 3 Col de Néronne, whose steep slopes should start the fireworks.

How to Watch Stage 11 of the Tour de France in the Canada

If you live in Canada, you can catch all the action on FloBikes. An annual subscription will cost you $29.99/month or $150/year.

How to Watch Stage 11 of the Tour de France in the U.K.

UK viewers can watch the Tour de France on ITV4, Eurosport, and Discovery+.

A standard Discovery+ subscription, featuring Eurosport’s cycling coverage, costs £6.99 monthly or £59.99 annually. The premium subscription, which includes all this plus TNT Sports, is available for an extra £29.99 per month.

Since getting hooked on pro cycling while watching Lance Armstrong win the 1993 U.S. Pro Championship in Philadelphia, longtime Bicycling contributor Whit Yost has raced on Belgian cobbles, helped build a European pro team, and piloted that team from Malaysia to Mont Ventoux as an assistant director sportif. These days, he lives with his wife and son in Pennsylvania, spending his days serving as an assistant middle school principal and his nights playing Dungeons & Dragons.

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2024 Tour de France Results

Tadej Pogačar Thinks Vingegaard Is Afraid of Him

Evenepoel Throws Shade on Vingegaard’s Tactics

Tour de France Stage 10 Preview

Anthony Turgis Wins Stage 9 of Tour de France

Who’s Winning the 2024 Tour de France?

Tour de France Stage 9 Preview

Tour de France Stage 8 Recap

It’s Time for the UCI To Get a Grip

Tour de France Stage 8 Preview

Remco Evenepoel Wins Stage 7 of Tour de France

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Tour de France 2024 stage-by-stage guide: Route maps and profiles for all 21 days

This year’s tour de france will take the peloton from florence to a time-trial finish in nice via some epic climbs in the pyrenees and the alps, article bookmarked.

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The 2024 Tour de France is a truly unique race beginning in Florence and ending – for the first time in its 121-year history – outside Paris .

This year’s Tour will wrap up without the usual procession to the Champs-Elysees, where security resources will be focused on the Paris Olympics starting five days later. Instead, organisers have opted to end the race with an individual time-trial in Nice, adding the possibility of the yellow jersey changing hands on a dramatic final day.

Before that, riders face a typically gruelling challenge, with a hilly start in Italy before crossing to France where a perilous gravel stage awaits in Troyes. Week two leads the peloton south to the Pryenees and the monstrous Col du Tourmalet, before a series of days in the Alps including a particularly brutal stage 19 with a summit finish in Isola.

It all concludes in Nice on Sunday 21 July, where the race winner will be crowned.

Stage 1: Florence to Rimini (hilly, 206km) | Saturday 29 June

The opening stage of the 2024 Tour de France will be a beautiful ride, starting with the Grand Depart on the banks of the Arno river in the centre of Florence before heading through Tuscany to the finish line on Italy’s east coast, on the beachfront of Rimini. The route also takes in San Marino, the Tour’s 13th country. But it will be tough on what is the most hilly first stage in the race’s history with 3,600m of climbing to conquer. It could be a day for Tadej Pogacar to immediately make his mark, or for an outstanding classics rider like Mathieu van der Poel to target, while young puncheurs like Ireland’s Ben Healy and Belgium’s Maxim Van Gils could be outside bets.

• Stage 1: Romain Bardet shakes off peloton to finally claim yellow jersey

Stage 2: Cesenatico to Bologna, (hilly, 199km) | Sunday 30 June

The second day throws up a more gentle ride, though it still contains six categorised climbs to test the legs. The purest sprinters will get left behind but the small ascents are unlikely to put off the more hardy fast men, like Wout van Aert , who will like the look of the fast finish in Bologna.

• Stage 2: Kevin Vauquelin earns debut win as Tadej Pogacar assumes yellow

Stage 3: Plaisance to Turin (flat, 231km) | Monday 1 July

The long third stage will be the first opportunity for a bunch sprint to the finish line. Expect Alpecin-Deceuninck to try and control the final kilometres in an effort to position Jasper Philipsen for the win, but there is a stacked list of sprinters ready to challenge him including Arnaud de Lie, Dylan Groenewegen, Sam Bennett, Wout van Aert and Mark Cavendish, chasing a record 35th stage win to finally eclipse the great Eddy Merckx.

• Stage 3: Biniam Girmay makes history as first black African to win a Tour stage

Stage 4: Pinerolo to Valloire (mountainous, 140km) | Tuesday 2 July

A tough fourth stage takes the riders into France via a couple of testing category-two climbs and to the foot of the Col du Galibier – the first hors categorie ascent of the race. The gradient averages only 5.3% but at 23km long, it is a draining slog of a climb to the top and the strongest climbers will come to the fore. Expect some attacks among the big hitters like Tadej Pogacar and Jonas Vingegaard as we get our first real sense of the battle for overall victory.

• Stage 4: Tadej Pogacar makes statement with dominant win to regain yellow

Stage 5: Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne to Saint-Vulbas (flat, 177km) | Wednesday 3 July

The second sprint finish of this year’s Tour contains some small hills but nothing that should disrupt the power riders from reaching the finish near the front, where they will expect to battle for victory.

• Stage 5: Mark Cavendish makes history with record-breaking 35th win

Stage 6: Macon to Dijon (flat, 163km) | Thursday 4 July

An even flatter day looks ripe for a bunch sprint on the streets of Dijon. One small categorised climb early in the stage precedes an intermediate sprint which might be targeted by those hunting the green jersey, and a breakaway will almost certainly then take to the front of the race. But it is likely to be caught by the sprinters’ teams before the finish as the peloton’s power riders fight for the stage win.

• Stage 6: Dylan Groenewegen wins photo finish in Dijon

Stage 7: Nuits-Saint-Georges to Gevrey-Chambertin, (ITT, 25km) | Friday 5 July

The first individual time-trial of this year’s Tour de France sweeps through thick forest before opening out into the picturesque vineyards of Burgundy. The only climb is the short Cote de Curtil-Vergy (1.6km at 6.1%), followed by a descent into Gevrey-Chambertin, and here Remco Evenepoel – the reigning time-trial world champion – will plan to take some time from his general classification rivals who are less adept against the clock.

• Stage 7: Remco Evenepoel claims ‘crazy’ time trial win

Stage 8: Semur-en-Auxois to Colombey-les-Deux-Eglises (flat, 176km) | Saturday 6 July

It may be officially listed as a flat day, but stage eight contains five categorised climbs and plenty more undulation, along with an uphill drag to the finish which should be enough to shake out some of the pure sprinters from contention. This could be a bunch sprint, a day for the breakaway or even a bold solo attack if the situation presents itself for an opportunist near the front of the race.

• Stage 8: Biniam Girmay secures second stage win in sprint finish

Stage 9: Troyes to Troyes (hilly, 199km) | Sunday 7 July

The Tour de France takes on the gravel roads of the Champagne region to see out the first week, and the white dusty terrain could take down a few unfortunate victims. The 14 sections of gravel span 32km in all, and they are similar to the roads of the iconic Italian race, Strade-Bianche. The past winners of Strade-Bianche – Tom Pidcock, Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert and Tadej Pogacar – will fancy their chances here.

• Stage 9: Frustrated Tom Pidcock narrowly beaten on chaotic and dusty day

Rest day: Orleans | Monday 8 July

Stage 10: orleans to saint-amand-montrond (flat, 187km) | tuesday 9 july.

The Tour heads down to the centre of France, where on paper it is a nice-looking day for the sprinters, but they will need to stay alert to winds which could split the pack along this twisting route south to Saint-Amand-Montrond in the Loire Valley. A short, sharp climb 8km from the finish could be the launchpad for a brave attack, though the muscle men of the peloton will hope to fight it out against each other at the finish in Saint-Amand-Montrond.

Stage 11: Evaux-les-Bains to Le Lioran, (mountainous, 211km) | Wednesday 10 July

Six categorised climbs pepper a hard up-and-down day through the Massif Central. The third-from-last ascent is the toughest, the Puy Mary Pas de Peyrol (5.4km at 8.1%), with a painfully steep final 2km to conquer, and strong climbing legs will be needed to win the stage. A good day for a breakaway to escape and potentially stay away to the end.

Stage 12: Aurillac to Villeneuve-sur-Lot, (flat, 204km) | Thursday 11 July

The ‘flat’ categorisation disguises the numerous small hills dotted through this picturesque route to Villeneuve which will drain legs if the pace is high. Expect a determined breakaway to make it difficult for those teams hoping to set up a bunch sprint at the finish – twice before, the day has been won by a rider in the breakaway here.

Stage 13: Agen to Pau, (flat, 165km) | Friday 12 July

Pau is a staple of the Tour de France over the years, acting as the gateway to the Pyrenees mountains. The hilly finish to the stage might slow down some of the pure sprinters but they will be determined to reel in a breakaway – especially if they failed to do so a day earlier, and with so much hard climbing to come.

Stage 14: Pau to Saint-Lary-Soulan Pla d’Adet, (mountainous, 152km) | Saturday 13 July

The iconic Col du Tourmalet stands in the middle of this mountain stage, with the road peaking at 2,115m above sea level. The 19km climb averages 7.4% gradient and once it’s conquered, two more big climbs await including a summit finish at Pla d’Adet. The GC contenders will surely trade blows on this brutal day.

Stage 15: Loudenvielle to Plateau de Beille (mountainous, 198km) | Sunday 14 July

A nice relaxing weekend in the Pyrenees is rounded off with five climbs over a 200km route, all rated category one or harder. Expect fireworks among the yellow jersey contenders as they race to the finish atop Plateau de Beille.

Rest day: Gruissan | Monday 15 July

Stage 16: Gruissan to Nimes (flat, 189km) | Tuesday 16 July

This is the final chance for the sprinters to bag a stage before the road kicks up into the mountains once more. Those in contention for the win will need to keep their composure as roundabouts punctuate the long final strip into the line in Nimes.

Stage 17: Saint-Paul-Trois-Chateaux to Superdevoluy (mountainous, 178km) | Wednesday 17 July

The peloton reaches the Alps for a day that will be draining as the road tilts from the start. There are bonus seconds to be collected at the top of the category-one Col du Noyer, before a fast descent to a small summit finish which caps a tough second half to this stage.

Stage 18: Gap to Barcelonnette (hilly, 180km) | Thursday 18 July

A breakaway will certainly have a go at escaping up the road to clinch this stage, and they should be able to make it stick. The five official climbs are all category-three ascents which might mean some of the well-rounded sprinters, like Wout van Aert, can clamber over them and be a threat at the finish.

Stage 19: Embrun to Isola 2000 (mountainous, 145km) | Friday 19 July

Perhaps the most eye-catching stage when the 2014 route was unveiled was this one: three monstrous Alpine climbs, back to back, with a summit finish at Isola. The middle climb of the trio is the giant Cime de la Bonette (22.9km at 6.9%), the highest road in France at 2,802m. If the fight for the yellow jersey is still alive at this point in the race, this will be a thrilling stage for the story to unfold.

Stage 20: Nice to Col de la Couillole (mountainous, 133km) | Saturday 20 July

It may be a little shorter at only 133km, but this is another brutally tough mountain stage featuring four climbs and another summit finish, atop the Col de la Couillole, and it is another day when the yellow jersey could be won or lost.

Stage 21: Monaco to Nice (ITT, 34km) | Sunday 21 July

The race will finish without the usual procession through Paris and instead see the riders contest an individual time-trial from Monaco to Nice that could decide the outcome of the Tour. The last time-trial finale saw Greg Lemond pinch the yellow jersey on the Champs-Elysees, beating Laurent Fignon by eight seconds. This route is longer than the stage-seven time-trial, and a little more hilly too, so there is potential for some significant time gaps.

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Tour de France Stage 5 results, standings: Mark Cavendish makes history

British sprinter Mark Cavendish broke the record for the most Tour de France stage wins in history with his sprint finish victory during Stage 5 of what is set to be his last ride in the prestigious race. 

Cavendish, 39, has now won a record-setting 35 Tour de France stages, cementing his status as the best sprinter in the history of the competition's 111 editions. He previously jointly held the record of 34 stage victories with Belgian cycling legend Eddy Merckx. 

After his record-breaking triumph in Saint Vulbas on Wednesday, Cavendish said his and his team’s goal for the 2024 Tour de France was to win at least one stage, even though doing so would be “a big gamble.”

“You have to go all in and we’ve done it,” Cavendish said . “We worked exactly what we wanted to do.” 

Cavendish won the first of his Tour stages in 2008 but has struggled since 2021 to add to his impressive tally — until today. 

This victory served as the ultimate last-chance comeback for Cavendish following a slew of disappointing circumstances surrounding the Tour. The Brit was set to retire at the end of last season but returned for a final Tour de France after he crashed out of last year’s race during its eighth stage. This year, Cavendish got off to a rocky start as he appeared to struggle with heat-related issues in the early stages of the race. 

The top 10 contenders for the yellow jersey remain unchanged after Stage 5 with Slovenian Tadej Pogacar of UAE Team Emirates still occupying the top spot after his dominant Stage 4 win on Tuesday.  

Biniam Girmay, who made history as the first Eritrean and Black rider to win a Tour de France stage on Monday, has moved up to the top spot in the contest for the green jersey (points classification) as he successfully rocked up sprinting points along today's flat 110-mile route.

Here's a full look at the 2024 Tour de France standings after five days of riding.

Tour de France Stage 5 results

TOUR DE FRANCE: Recap, results and standings after Stage 4

Tour de France general classification standings after Stage 5

Tour de france jersey standings after stage 5.

• Yellow ( general classification ) : Tadej Pogacar
• Green ( points classification ):  Biniam Girmay
• Polka dot ( mountains classification ):  Jonas Abrahamsen
• White (young rider classification ):  Remco Evenepoel
• Yellow numbers ( teams classification) :  UAE Team Emirates
• Golden numbers ( combativity award ):  Clément Russo

Tour de France Stage 6: How to watch, schedule, distance

Date : Thursday, July 4, 2024

Location : Mâcon to Dijon (France)

Distance : 101.6 miles (163.5 kilometers)

Type : Flat stage

Streaming: Peacock, FuboTV

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