United Kingdom-7-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in London

  • Arrive at one of London’s six international airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, City, or Southend)
  • Take the Tube (London Underground) from the airport to your hotel
  • Check-in to your accommodation and freshen up
  • Visit Buckingham Palace for the Changing of the Guard ceremony (10:30 am - 1 pm)
  • Explore Trafalgar Square, a vibrant public space with famous landmarks like the National Gallery, St Martin’s Church, and the imposing Lord Nelson’s column

Things to know

  • The UK is in the British Summer Time (BST) zone, which is GMT+1
  • The official language is English, but you may also hear Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, or Northern Irish languages spoken in their respective regions
  • Tipping in the UK is generally 10-15% for good service

Day 2: London

  • Visit The British Museum, one of the world’s greatest museums, featuring a vast collection of artifacts from ancient civilizations (free admission)
  • Take a stroll through Covent Garden, a historic square with street performers, boutique shops, and restaurants
  • Explore Camden Market, a bustling outdoor market with eclectic stalls selling fashion, crafts, and food
  • Enjoy dinner at a traditional English pub like The Spaniards Inn or Ye Olde Cheshire Cheese

Things to know

  • The Tube operates from approximately 5 am to midnight, Monday-Friday; later hours on weekends
  • London’s famous red phone booths are still operational and can be used for emergencies or information (but not for making phone calls!)

Day 3: Stonehenge and Bath

  • Take a day trip to Stonehenge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located about an hour from London (book tickets in advance)
  • Explore the mysterious prehistoric monument and learn about its history and significance
  • Visit Bath, a picturesque city famous for its Roman Baths, Georgian architecture, and natural hot springs (approximately 2 hours by car or train)

Things to know

  • Stonehenge is open from 9:30 am - 5 pm, April-October; shorter hours November-March
  • The Roman Baths in Bath are a must-visit attraction, with guided tours available

Day 4: Oxford and the Cotswolds

  • Visit Oxford, famous for its University of Oxford (the oldest university in the English-speaking world) and iconic Bodleian Library (free admission)
  • Explore the charming town of Burford, a quintessential Cotswold village with honey-colored stone cottages, tea rooms, and local shops
  • Take a leisurely stroll through Woodstock, another picturesque Cotswold village known for its beautiful church, quaint homes, and connections to C.S. Lewis’s Chronicles of Narnia

Things to know

  • Oxford University is open to visitors year-round; consider taking a guided tour or visiting the Ashmolean Museum
  • The Cotswolds are characterized by rolling hills, picturesque villages, and historic churches - be sure to explore on foot or take a scenic drive through the area

Day 5: Manchester and Lake District

  • Visit Manchester, a vibrant city with rich history, cultural attractions (e.g., the National Football Museum), and world-class shopping (e.g., the Trafford Centre)
  • Take a day trip to the stunning Lake District National Park, famous for its breathtaking scenery, literary connections (W.W. Wordsworth, Beatrix Potter), and picturesque towns like Ambleside and Windermere

Things to know

  • Manchester is approximately 2 hours by car or train from London
  • The Lake District is a UNESCO World Heritage Site; visit the Lake District National Park Authority website for information on walking routes, attractions, and accommodations

Day 6: Edinburgh and Scotland’s Highlands

  • Visit Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital city, famous for its stunning architecture (e.g., Edinburgh Castle), cultural festivals (e.g., Fringe Festival), and rich history
  • Explore the historic town of Inverness, often referred to as the ‘Capital of the Highlands’, with connections to Loch Ness, Urquhart Castle, and the surrounding countryside

Things to know

  • Scotland’s weather can be unpredictable; pack waterproof gear and layers for changing conditions
  • Inverness is approximately 4 hours by car or train from Edinburgh

Day 7: Departure from London

  • Spend the morning shopping for last-minute souvenirs, visiting any attractions you missed earlier in your trip, or relaxing at your hotel
  • Depart from one of London’s six international airports, carrying memories and experiences to treasure