1,460 words, 8 minutes read time.
You know those trips that are a little chaotic, a little misty, a little magical, and everything you hoped for, even when it wasn’t going to plan? That’s what this 9 day UK road trip (not counting travel to and from the UK) turned out to be. From misty gardens to medieval halls, traffic circles to towering castles, this was a whirlwind of countryside charm, historic homes, and some truly nerve-wracking driving.
9 day UK Road Trip Itinerary
- Day 1: London Landing
- Day 2: London → Cotswolds
- Day 3: Exploring the Cotswolds
- Day 4: Cotswolds → Peak District
- Day 5: Last Stop in England – Bakewell and Haddon Hall
- Day 6: Welcome to Scotland
- Day 7: Castles & Highland Vibes
- Day 8: Glencoe → Edinburgh
- Day 9: Edinburgh in All Its Weather
Day 1: London Landing
After a long flight, I hopped on the Elizabeth Line and headed into the city. I had just enough energy to wander through the V&A Museum, take in Big Ben, stroll through Mayfair and Grosvenor Square, and crash at an IBIS hotel. A solid welcome to the UK with just the right amount of art and architecture. Especially if you enjoy reading historical romance fiction set in London.
Day 2: London → Cotswolds
England turned on the charm and the fog. I picked up my rental car (a decision I now have mixed feelings about) and headed toward the countryside. Stonehenge made a blurry cameo from the highway- there was no way I was hiking through the cold mist or mud to see it up close.
The real highlight? Stourhead Gardens, where Mr. Darcy proposed to Elizabeth in the 2005 Pride & Prejudice. I’m not saying I teared up or anything, but I definitely did a happy dance.
I also made a quick stop in Lacock, a village straight out of a film set because, well, it literally is one (Harry Potter and Downton Abbey to name a few).
Let’s pause here: driving in the UK is not for the faint of heart. I’ve tackled the Amalfi Coast and thought I could handle it. But y’all, the brain gymnastics required to stay on the left side of the road, in the right side of the car, while navigating mini-lanes and stone hedges is something else. If you’re a confident driver, go for it- but be warned. I was sweating through my coat.
I ended the day in Bourton-on-the-Water, a picture-perfect village that felt like something out of a snow globe. Worth every near-death moment on the road. CHARMING!
Day 3: Cotswolds
This might have been my favorite day. I traveled through the Cotswolds and every village was equally as gorgeous as the next. Seriously the drive there is half the fun because everything is picturesque! I went to Burford, Castle Combe, and finished back at Bourton-on-the-Water for my second night stay!
Beautiful Wiltshire.
Castle Combe
Castle Combe is often called the prettiest village in England- and it absolutely earns the title. Tucked into the Wiltshire countryside, this tiny hamlet feels like it’s frozen in time. With its honey-colored stone cottages, quiet streets, and old stone bridge over a gentle stream, Castle Combe looks like something out of a storybook. There are no streetlights, no modern signage, and barely a trace of anything contemporary, which only adds to its charm. It’s the kind of place where you slow down for a pot of tea and just enjoy everything without even trying.
Heading to Europe??
Day 4: Cotswolds → Peak District
I visited Chatsworth House, which Austen fans will recognize as Mr. Darcy’s Pemberley. I sat on the lawn, read Pride & Prejudice, and tried to wrap my head around the grandeur. It’s hard to overstate how massive and ornate it is and the kind of wealth it represented especially back in the 1700-1800s.
That night, I stayed in the historic Riber Hall which is now a B&B. It was seriously the best stay with the location, the history (apparently Mary, Queen of Scots, stayed for two days), and the breakfast. I ended the day on a walk through the countryside near Riber and found a castle and a public field path, as one does in England.
Day 5: Last Stop in England in Bakewell & Haddon Hall
I kicked things off with a great breakfast at my B&B. Food in the UK is questionable at best to my American tastes but I loved this breakfast that was prepared for me.
At my B&B owner’s recommendation, I went to the Bakewell market for cheese and people-watching. From there, I visited Haddon Hall, a medieval estate that stood in stark (and refreshing) contrast to Chatsworth’s flash.
Then came a very long drive north- what should’ve been 3.5 hours stretched to nearly 5 thanks to traffic. But with the right playlist, even bumper-to-bumper in a tiny UK town isn’t too bad.
Day 6: Welcome to Scotland
Crossed into Scotland and made a quick stop at the Gretna Green gas station—because how could I not visit the famously romantic town from all those historical novels? Then I headed through Glencoe with no agenda, just a route from point A to B. I expected it to feel a bit aimless, but it turned out to be one of the most unforgettable days of the trip. Sometimes, having no plan really is the best plan.
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Day 7: Castles & Highland Vibes
Checked another castle off my list- Eilean Donan, and wow, it did not disappoint. Perched on a small tidal island where three lochs meet, it looks like something straight out of a movie (and actually has been in several). The stone bridge, the misty hills behind it, the way it reflects off the water- it’s pure magic. If you’re anywhere near the Highlands, this one is a must-see. Scotland just kept raising the bar with its wild, dramatic landscapes.
Day 8: Glencoe → Edinburgh
One more peek at the Highlands as I head out and it was pure magic. The rain and the sun created a rainbow and if I expressed emotions like a normal person, I may have cried.
But it was back to reality and I had to head into Edinburgh, where I finally ditched the car and sighed a huge breath of relief. This was my final day with the rental car and I was more than ready to hand over those keys.
A few takeaways from UK driving:
- Roundabouts: Genius. We need more of them in the U.S.
- Motorway manners: So courteous! Everyone moves over to let you pass. It was weirdly wholesome.
- Country roads: Terrifying. The hedges and stone walls literally right next to the road feel like they are practically in the road.
- Fuel prices: Painful. I spent a small fortune just getting around.
Still- no regrets. Seeing places off the tourist path was worth the panic.
I was reaching the point of my trip where my energy was waning so I spent a chill night at my Airbnb apartment that was in a residential part of the city. I went to a nearby grocery store and became one with the couch and my kindle. I knew I would have to rally for one more full day and I am glad I rested.
Day 9: Edinburgh in All Its Weather
If you don’t like the weather in Scotland, just wait 30 minutes. It poured. Then the sun came out. Then it poured again. It was absolutely perfect for my visit to Edinbburgh. I explored the city mostly on foot and honestly wish I had more time here. But I firmly believe in leaving a place with a reason to come back and I just think Edinburgh has lots of reasons to come back.
Day 10: Headed Home
Back to Georgia with a camera roll full of castles, gardens, and very narrow roads. I missed my people, my dog, and Mexican food- though not necessarily in that order. This trip reminded me why I love traveling: it forces you out of your comfort zone and right into the kind of moments that stay with you forever.
Would I recommend a UK road trip?
Yes, if you like Jane Austen, countryside views, and can handle a steering wheel on the right. Even better if you have someone else to drive you! Truly- it was unforgettable.
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The cool aunt. Plant novice who loves to travel to cool places, eat unadventurous food, and take pretty photos.
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