The United Kingdom is home to some of the world’s most iconic cities, stunning countryside and a wealth of cultural attractions. With two weeks in the UK, you can explore England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in depth. Whether you’re looking for cosmopolitan cities, romantic castles or misty moors, this ultimate itinerary has something for everyone.
Day 1: London
Start your two weeks in the UK by exploring the capital, London. This bustling city has something to appeal to everyone, from the iconic sights of the Houses of Parliament and Tower of London to the hidden gems of the city’s markets and alleyways. Spend the morning exploring the city’s top attractions, such as the National Gallery and British Museum, before heading for lunch at a traditional pub. In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll along the South Bank of the Thames, taking in the views of the river and its bridges. For dinner, why not experience a taste of the East End with a night out in Brick Lane.
Day 2: Oxford and Stonehenge
On day two, make your way to the university city of Oxford. Take a stroll through the cobbled streets, admiring the impressive architecture of the colleges before taking a punting trip on the River Cherwell. In the afternoon, you can head west to the mystical Stonehenge for a unique experience at this ancient monument. Here you can wander around the stones and take in the views of the surrounding countryside.
Day 3: Bath and the Cotswolds
On day three, take a trip to the city of Bath. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its beautiful Georgian architecture and its Roman Baths, which are some of the best-preserved in Europe. After exploring the city, spend the afternoon in the Cotswolds, a stunning area of rolling hills and charming villages. Here you can take a leisurely walk through the countryside, stopping in a traditional pub to sample some of the region’s finest ales.
Day 4: The Lake District
Head north to the Lake District on day four. This picturesque area of England is home to some of the country’s most spectacular scenery, with tranquil lakes, rugged hills and charming villages. Spend the day exploring the area, taking in the views from the top of Scafell Pike or taking a leisurely stroll around one of the lakes. For dinner, why not sample some of the local produce, such as Herdwick lamb or sticky toffee pudding.
Day 5: Edinburgh
Continue north to the vibrant city of Edinburgh on day five. Spend the morning exploring the city’s cobbled streets and hidden alleyways, taking a tour of the impressive Edinburgh Castle before enjoying a traditional Scottish lunch. In the afternoon, take a stroll up to Arthur’s Seat for spectacular views over the city. Finish the day with a wander around the Royal Mile, taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
Day 6: Inverness and the Highlands
Continue your exploration of Scotland on day six, heading to the city of Inverness. From here, you can explore the stunning Highlands, taking in the views from Ben Nevis or Loch Ness. Take a boat trip to spot some of Scotland’s wildlife, or take a whisky tour to sample some of the country’s finest malts. Finish the day with a traditional Scottish dinner in one of the city’s many pubs.
Day 7: Glasgow
Head south to Glasgow on day seven. This vibrant city is home to some of the best shopping and nightlife in Scotland, as well as an impressive selection of museums and galleries. Take a stroll around the city, exploring the Victorian and Edwardian architecture before heading to the galleries to admire some of Scotland’s finest art. Finish the day with a traditional Scottish meal in one of the city’s many restaurants.
Day 8: Cardiff and Snowdonia
Head south to Wales on day eight, exploring the capital, Cardiff. This vibrant city has a wealth of attractions to explore, from the iconic castle to the beautiful Victorian arcades. After exploring the city, make your way to Snowdonia National Park, where you can spend the afternoon admiring the stunning scenery. Here you can take a leisurely stroll around the park, or take a hike up one of the area’s many peaks.
Day 9: Liverpool
Continue your exploration of England on day nine, heading to the port city of Liverpool. This vibrant city has a rich cultural heritage, with attractions such as the Beatles Story and the Merseyside Maritime Museum. After exploring the city, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, admiring the views of the river and the city’s iconic skyline. Finish the day with a night out in the city’s many bars and clubs.
Day 10: York and the Yorkshire Dales
Head north to the city of York on day ten. This historic city is home to some of the best-preserved medieval architecture in Europe, with attractions such as the York Minster and the city walls. After exploring the city, take a trip to the stunning Yorkshire Dales. Here you can take a scenic drive through the countryside, admiring the views of the rolling hills and charming villages.
Day 11: Cambridge and the Norfolk Coast
Head south to the university city of Cambridge on day eleven. Here you can explore the cobbled streets and take a punting trip on the River Cam. In the afternoon, make your way to the Norfolk Coast, taking in the stunning views of the sea and the area’s many sandy beaches. Finish the day with a traditional fish and chips dinner in one of the local pubs.
Day 12: Belfast
On day twelve, head to Belfast in Northern Ireland. This vibrant city is home to some of the best nightlife in the country, as well as a wealth of cultural attractions. Take a tour of the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the City Hall and the Peace Wall, before taking a stroll around the city’s many markets and alleyways. Finish the day with a traditional Irish dinner in one of the city’s many pubs.
Day 13: Dublin
Continue your exploration of Ireland on day thirteen, heading south to the capital, Dublin. This vibrant city is home to some of the best pubs and bars in the country, as well as a wealth of cultural attractions. Spend the morning exploring the city’s top sights, such as the Guinness Storehouse and the Book of Kells, before heading to the pubs in the afternoon. Finish the day with a traditional Irish dinner in one of the city’s many restaurants.
Day 14: Back to London
On the final day of your two weeks in the UK, it’s time to head back to London. Spend the morning exploring the city’s attractions, such as the Tower of London or the London Eye, and take a leisurely stroll around the streets of the city. In the afternoon, take a trip to one of the city’s many parks, such as Hyde Park or Kensington Gardens, to take in one last view of the city before you head home.
Conclusion
The United Kingdom is an incredibly diverse country, with something to appeal to everyone. With two weeks in the UK, you can explore England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in depth, taking in the sights and sounds of the country. From the vibrant cities of London and Edinburgh, to the stunning countryside of the Lake District and the Highlands, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable experience.