London and Scotland trip: 12-day train itinerary

A trip to London and Scotland It brings together the best of Great Britain: the energy of the English capital, then the castles, lochs and mountains of the Highlands. Thanks to the train, moving from one to the other is simple and quick, without even having to take a plane.

In short: For a trip to London and Scotland, allow 10 to 14 days. Spend 3 days in London, take the train to Edinburgh (approximately 4.5 hours), perhaps stopping in York, then dedicate the rest of your stay to the Highlands and the Isle of Skye. Arrive in London by Eurostar and fly back from Edinburgh.

Why combine London and Scotland?

These two destinations offer very different, yet perfectly complementary, experiences. London captivates with its free museums, diverse neighborhoods, and famous landmarks. Scotland, on the other hand, offers wide-open spaces, a rich history, and a more authentic atmosphere. This allows you to enjoy both city life and nature, all in one trip.

UP TO YOU

What kind of traveler are you for? London and Scotland trip: 12-day train itinerary "?

5 quick questions to see what suits you best.

Question 1 of 5

In the city, you enjoy exploring…

On foot, neighborhood by neighborhoodMajor sites first

Question 2 of 5

Need a break?

A local cafe or pubA museum or a monument

Question 3 of 5

What appeals to you most?

The atmosphere of the streets and marketsHistory and architecture

Question 4 of 5

In the evening, you would rather choose…

A good restaurant and a lively neighborhoodA show or a visit

Question 5 of 5

With a few free hours?

You let yourself be carried awayYou add an essential

• An easy journey : 4 hours 30 minutes direct train journey between London King's Cross and Edinburgh.
• No going back : arrival by Eurostar in London, return by plane from Edinburgh.
• Two atmospheres : culture and shopping in London, castles and landscapes in Scotland.
• Easy steps York, Durham or the Lake District can easily be reached by road.

How do I get from London to Scotland?

The train remains the best option. LNER trains connect London King's Cross to Edinburgh Waverley in approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, following the Northumberland coast. Furthermore, booking early allows you to secure good fares. For a unique experience, the Caledonian Sleeper night train also connects London to Edinburgh, Inverness, or Fort William.

Flying is faster on paper, but airport transfers lengthen the journey. As for driving, it allows you to visit the north of England along the way, but driving in London is not recommended. To find out more, read our guide to best train routes in Scotland.

Our 12-day London and Scotland itinerary

Days 1 to 3: London

Start with three days in London: Westminster, the Tower of London, the British Museum, and the Camden or Borough markets. To plan these days, follow our guide for Visit London in 3 days. Wizarding fans can also visit the studios. Harry Potter in London.

Day 4: York, a medieval stop

Then take the train north and make a break at York, halfway there. Its cathedral, its ramparts and the famous Shambles street are well worth an overnight stay.

Days 5 to 7: Edinburgh

Join us in Edinburgh to discover its castle, the Royal Mile, and the view from Arthur's Seat. Our guide What to do in Edinburgh will help you prepare for your visit.

Days 8 to 12: Highlands and Isle of Skye

Finally, head off to the Highlands: Glencoe, Loch Ness, Inverness, then the’Isle of Skye. For this part of the trip, a rental car or a chauffeur-driven tour offers the most freedom. Then return to Edinburgh or Glasgow for your flight home.

Do you prefer to travel without a car? Our a train journey to Scotland can be easily combined with a few days in London.

How many days should I plan for?

• 7 days London and Edinburgh only, ideal for a first glimpse.
• 10 days : London, York, Edinburgh and a short loop in the Highlands.
• 14 days : the ideal duration, with Skye and the Highlands at a leisurely pace.

When to leave?

The ideal time to visit is from May to September, with long days and mild temperatures. In August, Edinburgh also hosts its famous festival, but prices are higher. In December, London and Edinburgh are ablaze with Christmas lights thanks to their markets: discover our guide London in December.

What budget should I plan for?

For a 12-day trip, expect to spend between €2,200 and €4,000 per person, excluding flights, depending on the level of accommodation. London remains the most expensive part of the trip, while Scotland offers beautiful boutique hotels at more affordable prices. Our guide to budget for England provides precise benchmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a passport to go to London and Scotland?

Yes. French citizens must have a valid passport and an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). However, there are no checks between England and Scotland. Full details are in our guide. formalities for the United Kingdom.

Is it possible to visit London and Scotland in one week?

Yes, focusing on London and Edinburgh, with perhaps a day trip to the Highlands. To truly discover Scotland, however, plan at least 10 days.

Train or plane between London and Edinburgh?

The train, without hesitation: it leaves from the city centre, offers beautiful scenery and takes barely longer than the plane, once transfers are taken into account.

Plan your trip to London and Scotland with Brightside Travel

At Brightside Travel, our local team organizes tailor-made trips between England and Scotland. We book trains, accommodation, and tours, then create an itinerary that suits your pace. Discover our tailor-made trips in England and in Scotland, or our combination Scotland and Ireland. For train schedules, please consult the official website of LNER.

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