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United Kingdom

London's palaces, museums and markets, and Edinburgh's castle and hills, joined by a fast train up the east coast.

Best timeMay to SepMoneyPound sterling (GBP)PlugsType G, 230 VMain airportLondon (LON)
Approved by TravPa Editors, Nov 3, 2026
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Overview

Most first trips start in London and add Edinburgh, about 4.5 hours north by train, or day trips to Bath, Oxford and the Cotswolds. Many of London's great museums are free.

Late spring to early autumn brings the longest days and the mildest weather. Edinburgh fills up in August for its festivals, so book early.

When to go

BestGo with a plan
janColdfebColdmarCoolaprMildmayBestjunBestjulBestaugBusysepBestoctCoolnovRainydecCold

Edinburgh's festivals fill the city in August, when rooms cost the most. Winter days are short: in Edinburgh, December daylight lasts about seven hours.

Every month in detail: weather and recent fares

Itineraries

[Photo: Edinburgh]
Edinburgh in 2 daysEdinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Grassmarket, National Museum, Arthur's Seat, Holyroodhouse, Dean Village, Calton Hill, LeithBalanced pace
[Photo: London]
London in 3 daysWestminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, National Gallery, Tower of London, Borough Market, St Paul's, Tate Modern, British Museum, South KensingtonBalanced pace

Where to stay

EdinburghThe Old Town for atmosphere, the New Town for elegant streets and restaurants, Stockbridge or Leith for a local feel.Best areas to stay in EdinburghHotels in Edinburgh
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LondonCovent Garden or Westminster for first-timers who want the sights on foot, South Kensington for museums and calm streets, Shoreditch for nightlife and value.Best areas to stay in LondonHotels in London
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Getting around

  • Trains: London to Edinburgh takes about 4.5 hours; book early for the cheapest fares.
  • In London: Tap a contactless card or phone on the Tube and buses; daily fares are capped automatically.
  • Driving: Traffic drives on the left, and central London has a congestion charge. You won't need a car in either city.
  • In Edinburgh: The Old Town is steep and cobbled. Trams run from the airport to the city center.

Before you go

Travel insuranceHealth insurance from home often doesn't cover care abroad, and visitors may be charged for NHS hospital care. Compare cover for your dates.
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