7 incredible British itineraries — London and beyond
Photo: VisitBritain/Rod Edwards
Diverse natural landscapes. Buzzing urban centers. Unbelievably charming historic towns. There’s one thing we know for sure: Great Britain isn’t short of an incredible adventure. From eating your way through Michelin-star-studded villages to visiting your favorite film locations in the Scottish Highlands, at least one of these seven British itineraries will have you reaching for your passport. The only question is: Which one will it be?
This guide is proudly produced in partnership with VisitBritain.
The Big Smoke
Photo: VisitBritain/Jules Elliott
Thanks to its world-class art scene, top-notch nightlife, and global cuisine — not to mention the architecture, designer and boutique shopping, and beautiful green spaces — a few days is rarely enough in London. To make sure you don’t miss out on any of the action, we’ve highlighted the capital’s top neighborhoods, from the bright lights of the West End to the romantic riverbanks of the North West. Welcome to London, “The Big Smoke,” one of the world’s most vibrant cities.
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Great British City Hop
Photo: VisitBritain/George Johnson
Whether it’s a bustling metropolis or a quieter culture capital you’re after, Great Britain is home to some of the most historic-yet-exciting cities anywhere. With direct and affordable flights, trains, and buses from London to all major cities in the country, visiting them in one trip might just give you the best bang for your buck (pow for your pound?). From exploring 16th-century castles in Edinburgh to tracing the footsteps of the Stone Roses in Manchester, this Great British city hop will have you eating, drinking, and sightseeing till your head hits the pillow.
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Royal Britain
Photo: VisitBritain/Tom Weightman
Great Britain has one of Europe’s longest and richest regal histories — and today this history and its traditions make up one of the most valued institutions in the country. From the bright lights of London to the idyllic green hills of Gloucestershire, below is where you’ll find Britain’s most iconic castles, palaces, and gardens (and get to live out your Duke or Duchess dreams).
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Scottish Highlands By Rail
Photo: VisitBritain/Adam Burton
With its jagged, snow-capped peaks, moss-green moors, and shimmering blue lochs, the Scottish Highlands have long captured the imagination of poets, artists, and Hollywood film producers. The best way to take it all in? From the window of your 1900s steam-train carriage. Get ready to ride the rails, Scotland style.
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Gourmet Britain
Photo: VisitBritain
If there’s a country where it’s okay to be guided by your stomach rumblings, it’s Great Britain. With a focus on farm-to-table cooking and creative fusion techniques, the gourmet culinary scene across the island has exploded in recent years, and today it holds around 180 Michelin-starred restaurants countrywide. From London’s thriving multicultural food scene to Yorkshire’s award-winning British classics, look no further for your ultimate British foodie tour.
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Welsh Escape
Photo: VisitBritain/Ben Selway
Taking in some of the most stunning landscapes and coolest cities in Wales, this itinerary will have you climbing snowy peaks, jumping off rocky cliffs, and jamming to live indie music. Hikers and campers, take note — this is where you should start paying attention.
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Outdoor Adventure
Photo: VisitBritain/Andrew Picket
It may be less than 900 miles from top to bottom, but with its colorful patchwork of green fields, blue lakes, snow-capped mountains, misty woodlands, and moss-covered moors, Great Britain packs in far more natural diversity than you might expect. This action-packed road trip itinerary takes you to England’s most stunning national parks and countryside spots, where boundless outdoor adventures — like hiking, climbing, kayaking, and mountain biking — await.
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This guide is proudly produced in partnership with VisitBritain.