Britain is best experienced by exploring its hidden corners and scenic countryside. While trains and planes offer speed, a road trip provides the freedom to discover the real Britain at your own pace. This is especially true when you’re behind the wheel of your rented luxury car, with all the comfort and style it provides. This route takes you from London to Edinburgh, via the stunning Lake District, allowing you to experience a diverse range of landscapes and iconic destinations. Forget rushing from one place to the next; this journey is about enjoying the drive, discovering hidden gems, and immersing yourself in the beauty of the British countryside. Expect winding roads, charming villages, historic towns, and breathtaking scenery. This itinerary is designed for those who want to escape the ordinary and embark on a truly memorable driving adventure. Get ready to experience the best of Britain, from the rolling hills of the Cotswolds to the dramatic peaks of the Lake District and the rugged beauty of Scotland. This 4 day epic road trip will be one that you’ll never forget.
Day 1 of this unforgettable adventure sees you leaving the hustle and bustle of London behind. Resist the urge to take the motorway, and instead opt for the A40, a more leisurely route that winds its way through the charming villages and rolling countryside of the Chiltern Hills. As you leave the city limits, the landscape transforms, giving way to quaint towns and verdant fields.
Make your first stop in the historic market town of Burford, Oxfordshire, a quintessential Cotswolds gem. Here, you can enjoy a delicious pub lunch at a traditional inn like The Cotswold Arms. This 17th-century coaching inn boasts cosy fireplaces, exposed beams, and a menu brimming with local produce.
With a satisfying meal under your belt, continue your journey through the heart of the Cotswolds. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty is renowned for its honey-coloured stone villages, idyllic landscapes, and quintessential English charm. Take your time to explore picturesque villages like Bourton-on-the-Water, with its low bridges and babbling River Windrush, and Stow-on-the-Wold, a historic market town with antique shops and tea rooms.
As the day draws to a close, arrive in the charming town of Chipping Campden, your base for the night. Instead of a traditional inn, why not opt for a luxurious stay with a touch of history? Check into Charingworth Manor, a magnificent 14th-century manor house nestled amidst the rolling Cotswold hills. This elegant hotel seamlessly blends period features with modern comforts, offering spacious rooms with four-poster beds, roaring fireplaces, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Indulge in afternoon tea in the grand drawing-room or take a stroll through the manicured gardens before enjoying a delectable dinner in the hotel’s award-winning restaurant. Charingworth Manor provides a truly regal experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the history and grandeur of the Cotswolds.
This first day sets the tone for your entire journey, a perfect blend of luxurious comfort, scenic driving, and captivating destinations.
Today’s destination, the Lake District, a region renowned for its dramatic peaks, shimmering lakes, and literary connections.
Leave the honey-coloured villages of the Cotswolds behind and embrace the scenic route The A44 will lead you through the rolling Malvern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty known for its dramatic ridges and lush valleys. Continue your journey along the A49, venturing into the Shropshire Hills, another captivating landscape of heather-clad hills and picturesque villages.
You should arrive in Ludlow, Shropshire, a historic market town with a thriving food scene, just in time for lunch. Indulge in a gourmet pub lunch at The Church Inn, a Michelin-starred establishment renowned for its innovative cuisine and cosy atmosphere.
After lunch head for the Kirkstone Pass (A592) for a truly memorable entrance into the Lake District. This challenging but rewarding road climbs to the highest pass in the Lake District, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding fells and valleys.
As you descend into the heart of the Lake District, the scenery transforms once again. Arrive in the charming lakeside town of Ambleside, your base for exploring this captivating region. Instead of a traditional hotel, why not opt for a stay that truly embraces the spirit of the Lakes? Check into The Samling, a luxurious boutique hotel nestled amidst 67 acres of private grounds with breathtaking views of Lake Windermere.
This intimate hotel offers a sophisticated blend of contemporary design and traditional Lakeland charm. Each room is individually designed, featuring plush furnishings, modern amenities, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Relax in the hotel’s spa, take a dip in the infinity pool overlooking the lake, or simply unwind in the tranquil gardens.
For dinner, The Samling boasts a Michelin-starred restaurant that showcases the finest local ingredients in innovative and exquisite dishes. With its focus on exceptional service, exquisite cuisine, and unparalleled views, The Samling provides a truly indulgent Lake District experience.
Day 3 of your luxury road trip unfolds in the heart of the Lake District, a region that has captivated poets, artists, and adventurers for centuries. With The Samling as your luxurious base, you have the perfect starting point to explore the surrounding wonders.
Start the day with a scenic drive around the shores of Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake. The winding roads offer breathtaking views of the shimmering water, framed by rolling hills and lush woodlands. Stop at charming villages along the way, each with its own unique character.
In Hawkshead, wander through the quaint streets lined with whitewashed cottages and visit the Beatrix Potter Gallery, housed in a 17th-century building where the beloved author once worked. Continue to Grasmere to explore Dove Cottage, the former home of William Wordsworth, and stroll through the tranquil churchyard where the poet is buried.
For lunch, embrace the beauty of your surroundings with a picnic by the lake. Find yourselves a secluded spot with panoramic views and savour a delicious spread of local delicacies. If you’re travelling in a Range Rover you might be lucky enough to find a spot to park up, lower the tailgate and enjoy the view from the finest seats with a gourmet picnic basket at your feet
The afternoon offers a wealth of choices. Embark on a boat trip across Lake Windermere, taking in the scenery from the open water of England’s biggest lake. For the more adventurous, choose a hike in the surrounding fells, with trails ranging from gentle strolls to challenging climbs. Or, delve into the region’s literary heritage with a visit to Hill Top, Beatrix Potter’s beloved farmhouse, preserved just as she left it.
As the day draws to a close, a special culinary adventure awaits. Instead of dining at The Samling tonight, embark on a short drive back to Grasmere and experience the gastronomic delights of Forest Side. This Michelin-starred restaurant, housed in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion, offers a truly immersive dining experience.
Settle into the elegant dining room with its views of the surrounding gardens and prepare to be captivated by a tasting menu that celebrates the flavours of the Lake District. Each dish is a work of art, showcasing the finest local ingredients in innovative and exquisite creations. From delicate amuse-bouches to intricate main courses and decadent desserts, the culinary journey at Forest Side is a symphony of tastes and textures that will leave your senses awakened.
Day 4. Edinburgh Awaits
Day 4 marks a shift in your journey as you bid farewell to the serene beauty of the Lake District and set your sights north towards the vibrant city of Edinburgh.
Today’s route takes you across the rugged beauty of the Pennines, a mountain range that forms the backbone of England. The A66 offers a dramatic and scenic drive, with sweeping views of moorland, valleys, and distant peaks. Try to keep an eye out for birds of prey soaring overhead.
As you cross the border into Scotland, the landscape takes on a wilder, more dramatic character. Stop for lunch in the historic border city of Carlisle. This ancient city boasts a rich history, with a castle dating back to the 12th century and a magnificent cathedral. Enjoy a delicious lunch at The Crown & Mitre Hotel, a historic coaching inn with a charming atmosphere and a menu featuring local specialities.
From Carlisle, continue your journey north. Resist the temptation of the motorway and opt for the A7, a more scenic route that winds its way through rolling hills and picturesque villages. This road offers a glimpse into the rural heart of Scotland, with its patchwork fields, stone cottages, and charming towns.
Arrive in Scotland’s capital and, for a truly unique experience, check into The Glasshouse, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the city. This remarkable hotel seamlessly blends historical charm with contemporary design. Housed within a former church dating back to the 17th century, The Glasshouse features a stunning modern facade and a secret rooftop garden with breathtaking views of Calton Hill.
Step inside, and you’ll find a stylish sanctuary with individually designed rooms, each featuring luxurious furnishings, bespoke artwork, and modern amenities. Relax in the hotel’s intimate library, enjoy a cocktail in the stylish bar, or unwind in the tranquil courtyard garden.
The Glasshouse also boasts its own award-winning restaurant, where you can savour innovative Scottish cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Or, if you prefer to explore the city’s vibrant culinary scene, the hotel’s knowledgeable concierge can recommend a range of nearby dining options to suit your taste.
With its unique blend of historical charm, contemporary design, and a prime location for exploring the city’s treasures, The Glasshouse provides the perfect ending to a day of scenic driving and discovery, and the most fitting end to this incredible trip in your luxury car across some of the most impressive landscapes in England.
