Are you planning a trip from London to Edinburgh? Consider the different travel options, must-see cities, and the ideal season for your visit. Our UK and Ireland expert, Lisbeth, has crafted this guide to help you planning your next England and Scotland vacation.
Lisbeth is part of our team of travel consultants. She has lived in London for over 25 years and has had the chance to travel and explore the wonders of Scotland on numerous occasions.
There are several options to consider when planning an itinerary from London to Scotland, including where to stop and how to travel. In this travel guide, we will address the three main questions below and provide you with tour recommendations.
There are many ways to travel from London to Scotland. You can choose travel type based on what's important to you, like speed, cost, or the chance to see more of the UK. This guide covers different ways to get to Scotland: by train, coach, car, and plane.
The British railway system criss-crosses the nation, linking major cities and charming smaller towns. Big cities like London and Birmingham are connected by speedy trains, while regional trains serve the quieter locations. Hop on a train to explore both London and further north to Scotland, with the option to pause in towns along the way for a more indept English experience.
You also have the choice to head directly to Scotland. The journey from London to Edinburgh takes about 4 to 6 hours, treating you to scenic views along the east coast. If you're looking to save time, consider the Caledonian Sleeper train for a comfortable overnight adventure of approximately 8 hours.
One of the cheapest ways to travel from london to scotland is by coach. There are several departures throughout the day and even into the night. The journey time is longer than by train, about 10 hours, to Edinburgh and 13 hours to Inverness. If you're an adventurous traveller, looking to immerse yourself further in the UK's diverse landscapes, you have the option to plan your route and explore various cities by hopping on different buses.
For those seeking a more independent adventure, renting a car allows you to traverse from England to Scotland on your own terms. For a swift journey, opt for the M1 and A1 route, cutting the travel time between the two capital cities, London and Edinburgh, to approximately 8 hours.
However, if you're in no hurry and desire a scenic escapade, you can plan a course through some of the UK's renowned and captivating cities. Keep in mind that many rental cars have manual transmission.
Additionally, remember that in the UK, driving is on the left-hand side of the road, so take a moment to familiarize yourself with this unique experience before you hit the road. Whether you choose the direct path or the winding roads, a road trip promises an enriching and rewarding adventure.
For those eager to reach Scotland swiftly, flying from London stands as the most convenient option. Direct flights to Edinburgh can prove budget-friendly, depending on your timing when making the booking.
The flight time is between 60 and 90 minutes. Flights depart from London City Airport, Heathrow, Gatwick or London Stansted airport and touch down at Edinburgh Airport. Once there, a brief tram, bus, or taxi ride whisks you into the heart of the city centre.
Should your sights be set on Scotland's northern landscapes, consider catching a flight from London to Inverness airport.
We recommend you use Skyscanner to check the different flight and company options.
Now that you know how to get to Scotland from London, we would like to introduce you the different regions you might encounter on your journey. From major cities to idyllic countryside, the UK’s magnificent landscapes invite you to explore. So, let’s dive right in:
.jpg)
London, the capital of England and the UK, is full of exciting things to see and do, whether you love art, history, or shopping. But remember, London is big and there's a lot to see, from the oldest parts in the City of London to the fancy West End and the historic City of Westminster – you might need plenty of time to see it all! Here are some must-see spots in London:
London Eye
Big Ben
Tower Bridge
Piccadilly Circus
Harrods
St. Paul's Cathedral
You can also check out famous museums like the Tower of London, British Museum, National Gallery, and Natural History Museum to learn about history and art. We’ve put together a walking tour itinerary, where you get to see the best of London in just one afternoon. If you're looking to save money while exploring London, our team has put together a list of the Top 10 Free Attractions in London.
Located in the centre of England, the West Midlands is nicknamed “The heart of England”. The region is rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes including the picturesque Cotswolds. The region is also the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. Here are our must-sees in the West Midlands:
Birmingham, the second largest city in the UK
Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of Shakespeare
Warwick and its castle
Dudley, the capital of the Black Country
Sutton Park, one of Europe’s biggest urban parks
The Northwest region has wonderful landscapes filled with lakes, incredible wildlife, and revolutionary cities with great history to discover. The region also boasts iconic cities such as Liverpool where the Beatles resonate in the streets or Oasis in the streets of Manchester. There is a lot to explore in this region. Here are our must-sees in Northwest England:
Lake District National Park, England’s largest National Park
The vibrant city of Liverpool
Manchester, the original Modern city
Blackpool, seaside town of Northwest England
The historic city of Chester
If you’re looking for varied landscapes in the United Kingdom, Yorkshire is the place to explore. Known for its Roman and Viking heritage, as well as its Norman castles, Yorkshire is an ideal location for anyone looking to hike the picturesque Yorkshire Dales. Discover the region’s captivating countryside, big cities, small, charming towns & villages, rolling hills and stunning coastlines. Here are our must-sees in Yorkshire:
York, the jewel of this county
North York Moors, a beautiful wild area
Whitby, a very popular seaside town
Harrogate, a pretty historic town
The capital city is located in central-eastern Scotland. Edinburgh is considered as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe thanks to its rustic buildings, cobbled streets, classic architecture, and castle perched on top of a rock overlooking the city. Stroll around the city and visit our must-sees in Edinburgh:
The Royal Mile, in the heart of Edinburgh Old Town
Edinburgh Castle located on top of Castle Rock
Arthur’s Seat, an ancient volcano
The real Mary King’s Close
Museums: National Museum of Scotland, Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
The Highlands are an ideal destination for your next adventure after visiting Edinburgh. It has been named one of National Geographic’s “Best of the World” destinations for 2023. The Scottish Highlands have many natural wonders for you to discover. Here are our must-sees in the Scottish Highlands:
Inverness and the legendary Loch Ness
The medieval castles of Isle of Skye
Torridon, the most dramatic mountain scenery
Glencoe, famous valley of the Braveheart movie
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park
One of the clichés about the United Kingdom is that the weather is always cold and rainy. Obviously, we’re a long way from tropical temperatures, but the weather tends to be mild most of the year. The UK can be visited at any time of the year as each season has its own charm and there are no extreme temperatures.
The summer months see the hottest temperatures of the year. These temperatures tend to be between 20 and 30 degrees. This is the driest time of the year, although, you can expect showers now and then. This is also the busiest time to travel in the UK, there are also many festivals and events such as the Royal Regatta, Wimbledon, Royal Ascot races and the Edinburgh Festival Fringe.
With the start of the new school year in September, the summer crowds are beginning to disperse, and the weather is still as pleasant as it was in August. It is therefore a great time to visit the UK. You can admire the beautiful colours of the leaves as you travel across the country. If you are a food lover, there a few food festivals across England to mark the harvest. Cooler temperatures arrive in October and some sites start to close for winter.
Winter is the coldest and darkest period of the year. It can be rainy and cold, from 0 to 5 degrees, so you might want to pack some warm clothes if you decide to travel during this period. November is the start of the Christmas season, when you can enjoy the bright decorations and charming Christmas markets in many cities and towns. Capital cities like London and Edinburgh have wonderful Christmas markets and carnivals.
March is when the mild temperatures of Spring begin to appear and the wonderful cherry trees are in bloom. It can be sunny with the arrival of spring flowers, both on the ground and on the trees. The clear sky can disappear and be replaced by grey clouds and rain. Sometimes, in the UK, weather cannot be predicted. The sites closed during winter start to reopen. In Spring, there are also many festivals and events such as the London Marathon which takes place on a Sunday at the end of April with thousands of participants.
Option 1: London to Edinburgh in 7 days
Day 1 & 2 - London: Spend two days exploring London's iconic landmarks. Enjoy a West End play or a Thames river cruise. Don't miss the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace, a quintessential British experience.
Day 3 – Manchester: Travel to Manchester to experience its unique blend of industrial history and vibrant culture. Visit the Science and Industry Museum, take a stroll through the Northern Quarter, and explore the Manchester Art Gallery.
Day 4 - York: Discover York Minster, stroll through The Shambles, and take in the old town's beauty. Explore the ancient city walls for a panoramic view of the city.
Day 5 - Edinburgh: Arrive in Edinburgh and unwind with an evening ghost tour or at a traditional Scottish pub. The ghost tour will introduce you to the city's mysterious and haunted past.
Day 6 – Edinburgh: Explore Edinburgh Castle, walk the Royal Mile, and visit Holyrood Palace. Climb Arthur’s Seat for stunning views and a chance to see the city from above.
Day 7 – Departure: Spend your morning in Edinburgh, possibly visiting the National Museum of Scotland, before your return journey. Enjoy a final Scottish breakfast before departing.
Related: London to Edinburgh explorer
Option 2: London to Edinburgh in 10 days
Day 1 - London: Start with a day exploring London’s highlights. Visit the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben. Take a walk along the Thames or experience a West End show in the evening.
Day 2 - London: Dive deeper with visits to the British Museum, the bustling markets of Covent Garden, and stroll through Hyde Park. Enjoy dinner in Soho for a taste of London’s diverse food scene.
Day 3 - Stratford-upon-Avon: Head to Shakespeare's birthplace and enjoy a guided tour of his historic home. Visit Anne Hathaway's Cottage and walk through this charming town, ending with an evening at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre.
Day 4 - Wales (Snowdonia): Journey into Wales, stopping in the breathtaking Snowdonia National Park. Explore mountain trails or ride the Snowdon Mountain Railway for unforgettable views. Stay overnight nearby to soak in the Welsh countryside.
Day 5 - Peak District: Travel into the Peak District for hikes or scenic drives through valleys and hills. Visit Chatsworth House or wander the historic market towns like Bakewell and Castleton. Spend the night in a local village.
Day 6 - York: Head to York to explore its medieval charm. Visit York Minster, stroll through The Shambles, and walk the city walls. In the evening, enjoy a guided ghost tour of one of England's most haunted cities.
Day 7 - North York Moors National Park: Journey into the beautiful North York Moors, taking scenic hikes or visiting coastal gems like Whitby, known for its abbey and Dracula legend. Enjoy the countryside before an overnight stay nearby.
Day 8 - Keswick (Lake District): Head to the Lake District and explore Keswick and its surroundings. Take a scenic walk around Derwentwater, visit Castlerigg Stone Circle, and sample the area’s cozy pubs and local food.
Day 9 - Edinburgh: Arrive in Edinburgh and start with a ghost tour or a Scottish pub evening. Wander the Royal Mile for unique shops and end with views of the illuminated city from Calton Hill.
Day 10 - Edinburgh: Spend your final day exploring Edinburgh Castle, Holyrood Palace, and, if time allows, hike up Arthur’s Seat. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the National Museum of Scotland before departing.
Related: London, Wales & Scotland adventure
Option 3: The ultimate UK tour in 15 days
Day 1-3 – London: Dedicate three days to London’s attractions, theatre, and districts like Notting Hill. Explore diverse culinary options in borough markets and trendy cafes.
Day 4 - Stratford-upon-Avon: Visit Stratford-upon-Avon, Shakespeare’s birthplace, and historical sites related to his life. Enjoy a performance at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre, if time allows.
Day 5-6 - Liverpool: Discover Liverpool’s Beatles Story at Albert Dock, its maritime history at the Merseyside Maritime Museum, and enjoy live music at the Cavern Club. Also, consider a ferry ride across the Mersey to see the city skyline.
Day 7-8 - Lake District: Visit the Lake District for its breathtaking landscapes and outdoor activities. Explore Beatrix Potter's Hill Top and hike in areas like Scafell Pike. Take a boat ride on Lake Windermere for a relaxing end to your day.
Day 9-11 - Edinburgh and Surroundings: Spend three days in Edinburgh and take a day trip to St. Andrews. Visit the famous Edinburgh Zoo or the botanical gardens for a leisurely afternoon.
Day 12-13 - Isle of Skye: Explore Isle of Skye’s dramatic landscapes and historical sites like Dunvegan Castle. Enjoy seafood freshly caught from the surrounding waters.
Day 14 - Scottish Highlands: Tour the Highlands, with a visit to Loch Ness. Experience traditional Highland games if your visit coincides with event dates.
Day 15 - Return to Edinburgh: Conclude in Edinburgh, ready for your journey home. Make sure to stroll through Edinburgh’s New Town for some last-minute shopping.
