Planning a road trip from London to Scotland? Discover the best routes, attractions, and travel tips for an unforgettable journey through the UK!
Are you ready for an epic journey through the heart of the UK? Picture this: vibrant cities, lush countryside, and captivating wildlife await you on a 500-mile adventure! The approximate London-to-Scotland drive time is about 10 hours without long stops, but we recommend savoring this trip over six days.
Feel the thrill of a road trip where you control the playlist and the pace. A rental car gives you the freedom to explore at your own rhythm. So, pack your bags, fuel up, and let’s hit the road!
London
London, a city bursting with life and history, is the perfect launch pad for your road trip adventure to Scotland. Kick off your journey by exploring the iconic landmarks – Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace. For a unique experience, you can take a leisurely stroll along the Thames, stopping at Borough Market for a bite of the city’s eclectic cuisine. Also, don’t miss the British Museum, where you can get lost in a world of ancient treasures – admission is free!
For art lovers, the Tate Modern offers stunning views of the skyline and world-class exhibitions. Plus, the vibrant Covent Garden and Soho districts are perfect for a night out, offering everything from quaint pubs to lively theaters.
The M1 motorway will whisk you out of the city towards your next destination, but be prepared for potential delays during rush hour (8-9 am and 6-7 pm).
🅿️ Parking Note: You can stay at the Q-Park Chinatown Car Park (20 Newport Place) offering covered slots for £10/hour and £ 20/two hours. From there, you’re a short walk to Leicester Square, Covent Garden, and Piccadilly Circus.
London’s congestion charge zone operates from 7 am to 10 pm, so consider using public transport or driving outside these hours in the city center.
Chester
When driving from London to Scotland, be sure to stay for at least 1 day in Chester – you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a medieval storybook. This charming city is a treasure trove of history with its well-preserved Roman walls and Tudor-style architecture.
A must-visit is Chester Zoo, one of the UK’s largest and most beautiful zoos. Home to over 35,000 animals, including rare species like the Asian elephant and Sumatran tiger, it’s an experience you won’t forget. The zoo is open daily, with tickets starting at £35/person for peak periods and £33/person as a standard rate.
Afterward, you may take a leisurely walk along the city walls, offering stunning views of the River Dee and Chester’s unique skyline. For a bite to eat, head to the Rows, where you’ll find a mix of shops and eateries housed in medieval buildings.
Chester is well-connected by the M6 and M56 motorways. The city’s narrow streets can be a bit challenging, so take it slow and watch for pedestrians.
🅿️ Parking Note: When visiting the zoo, leave your car at their designated parking area available for free for visitors.
Peak District
Next, dive into the natural beauty of the Peak District, England’s first national park. This region is a paradise for nature lovers, offering breathtaking landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages. Whether you’re hiking, cycling, or simply enjoying the scenery, the Peak District has something for everyone.
First, you may explore the historic Chatsworth House, a grand estate with beautiful gardens and art collections – a standard admission is £35-£10 ($45-$12.9) for adults/kids. For a more adventurous experience, hike up Mam Tor for panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. Also, don’t miss the picturesque Castleton village, known for its caves and Blue John stone.
The Peak District’s roads can be narrow and winding in rural areas. The A6 and A619 are the main routes but be prepared for slow-moving vehicles and occasional road closures.
🅿️ Parking Note: The Chatsworth House Parking offers convenient slots for £7.50 (£5 off-peak).
Manchester
It would be a crime to miss Manchester on your London-to-Scotland road trip – this city is a treasure trove of culture, history, and football mania. Start your adventure at the iconic Old Trafford, the legendary home of Manchester United. Even if you’re not a football fan, the stadium tour allows you to soak in the rich history of one of the world’s most famous clubs. Then, you can head to the Science and Industry Museum. It’s free to enter and an excellent spot for families and curious minds.
Don’t forget to visit Manchester Cathedral and wander around the Northern Quarter, a quirky neighborhood filled with indie shops, street art, and eclectic cafes. Whether you’re into music, food, or history, Manchester has something for everyone.
Keep in mind that the M6 has a toll section between Birmingham and Manchester – it’s worth the extra few pounds to skip the congestion.
Beware of the city’s busy traffic during peak hours, typically from 8-10 AM and 4-6 PM.
🅿️ Parking Note: The Car Park at Manchester Arndale is a great choice for exploring the city center, with rates starting from £3.70/hour, £6.70/two hours, or £9.20/three hours.
Glasgow
Next up, Glasgow! This city will captivate you with its eclectic mix of history, architecture, and modern vibes. Begin your visit at the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, a stunning red sandstone building that houses everything from dinosaur fossils to masterpieces by Salvador Dalí. Admission is free, making it a perfect pit stop for culture lovers.
Then, you may stroll along the River Clyde and explore the futuristic Riverside Museum, dedicated to Glasgow’s rich maritime history. For a taste of the local scene, head to the West End, where vintage shops and cozy cafes line the streets. And if you’re a music fan, explore Glasgow’s live music scene – catch a gig at the iconic Barrowland Ballroom or King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut.
Glasgow’s city center can be a maze of one-way streets, especially around the busy shopping areas. Also, the M8 motorway cuts right through the city – this requires extra attention because of the high traffic levels.
Don’t forget that Scotland’s fuel prices can be higher than in England (£1.5 vs £1.4), so fill up your tank before crossing the border.
🅿️ Parking Note: Try the Duke Street Car Park, offering convenient slots close to the city center for £2.50/hour, £5/two hours, or £7.50/three hours.
Loch Lomond
Now, prepare to be awestruck by the natural beauty of Loch Lomond, offering breathtaking views and endless outdoor adventures. Whether you’re hiking up Conic Hill for a panoramic vista or taking a leisurely boat cruise on the loch, there’s no shortage of things to do. The Loch Lomond Shores complex is a great place to start – browse the shops, grab a bite, or visit the SEA LIFE Loch Lomond Aquarium with £14.50 ($18.7) for adults and £8.50 ($10.9) for kids.
If you’re a nature enthusiast, explore Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park. The park is a hiker’s paradise with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes.
The A82 is the main route to Loch Lomond, and while the drive offers stunning views, it’s also known for being narrow and winding in parts. So, drive carefully, especially in wet weather, as the roads can become slippery.
🅿️ Parking Note: Head to the Loch Lomond Shores car park – it’s free for the first two hours and then £1 per hour.
What car do you choose to drive from London to Scotland?
As you wrap up your unforgettable road trip from London to Scotland, opting for the right rental car class can elevate the experience.
Why not go for a compact SUV? It offers a smooth ride through charming Chester and Manchester while providing enough space for all your essentials. Or, for a touch of luxury, select a premium sedan; it’s perfect for cruising the scenic routes of the Peak District and Loch Lomond.
Remember, driving on the left side is a must, and adhering to speed limits ensures a safe journey. If you’re ready to hit the road, book a cheap car at Rental24.com, and let’s go!