One week in England and Scotland (for Seniors)
If you’re interested to learn more about the UK’s history and culture, an unforgettable holiday to England and Scotland is in order! Luckily, we’ve got everything you need to plan the perfect UK vacation, including suggestions on how to see the best of London and Scotland in seven days, sample itineraries to make trip planning a breeze, and helpful travel tips tailored to mature travellers.
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One-week UK itinerary for seniors
Planning to spend one week in the United Kingdom? If you’re not quite sure what to do and where to go, these sample itineraries below will help you narrow down your choices and plan out the perfect UK trip. They cover everything from the most popular sights to historic landmarks and must-visit cities, so you can experience the best of the region.
ITINERARY 1
- London - Start with a hearty English breakfast and then head out to see the city’s most iconic attractions, from Big Ben to Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament.
- Stonehenge - Explore the visitor center at Stonehenge with its imaginative exhibitions, then take the shuttle to the stone circle and admire the magnificence of the monument up close.
- Bath - Head for the elegant Georgian city of Bath, where you can see amazing excavations of the Roman Baths, once one of the greatest religious spas of the ancient world.
- Liverpool - Join a guided walking tour to learn more about the city’s magnificent cathedral, stunning historic civic buildings, and the legendary Beatles.
- Edinburgh - Get acquainted with the 200-year old “New Town” and the famous inventors and novelists who once lived there. Then, head to Edinburgh’s Old Town to admire the gorgeous gothic and medieval architecture, and to explore the city’s 12th-century castle.
Discover the full itinerary here: British Escape
ITINERARY 2
- Edinburgh - Start with a hearty English breakfast and then head out to see the city’s most iconic attractions, from Big Ben to Westminster Abbey and the Houses of Parliament.
- St. Andrews - Tread in the footsteps of the world's golfing greats and stop at St. Andrews en route to the glorious Scottish Highlands.
- Scottish Highlands - Spend a few days exploring top destinations in this incredibly stunning part of the country, from the tragic battlefield of Culloden, the infamous Loch Ness and the breathtaking Isle of Skye.
- Glasgow - Begin your day seeing Glasgow's iconic sights. Enjoy views of the People's Palace and Winter Gardens, the regal George Square and River Clyde, which served as the centre of shipbuilding for over 200 years.
Discover the full itinerary here: Best of Scotland
Explore more one-week UK itineraries for seniors on TourRadar.
Ten-day London & Scotland itineraries for seniors
If you have ten days to spend in the UK, explore these itineraries below to plan the perfect trip through Great Britain’s most sought-after destinations. Whether you want to see the beautiful countryside or find the perfect London and Edinburgh itinerary, you’re sure to find it here.
ITINERARY 1
- London - From Big Ben to Westminster Abbey, you’ve seen London’s landmarks on TV and in the movies, but nothing quite compares to seeing them for yourself.
- Oxford - This city is best known as the home of England’s oldest university, but there’s plenty more to discover in Oxford.
- Cotswolds - With its rolling hills, sweeping meadows, charming villages, and stately homes, it’s hard not to fall in love with this pretty pocket of rural England.
- Lake District - Characterised by craggy hills, glistening lakes, and postcard-perfect villages, you’ll quickly see why the Lake District is renowned for being one of the most naturally beautiful regions in the country.
- Edinburgh - Visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels, then opt for a uniquely British experience: a tour of the Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal residence for state visits and family holidays.
Discover the full itinerary here: Highlights of Britain
ITINERARY 2
- London - Join a local guide for a grand exploration of England’s vibrant capital, including sights such as Big Ben, the imposing Houses of Parliament on the banks of the Thames, and Buckingham Palace.
- Stonehenge - Visit the world-famous stone monoliths at Stonehenge, whose centuries-old myths have yet to be fully revealed.
- Bath - The elegant Georgian architecture of Bath takes centre stage during a visit to this famous spa town. Start your sightseeing at Bath Abbey before moving onto the Roman Baths.
- Liverpool - Hometown of the “Fab Four,” a visit to The Cavern Club where The Beatles once played is something you simply can’t miss in the bold British city.
- Lake District - The enchanting views of Britain's Lake District provide a scenic backdrop for a leisurely drive north to Scotland. Stop at the stunning shores of Lake Windermere and enjoy views that inspired literary greats like William Wordsworth.
- Edinburgh - There’s plenty to see and do in the mesmerising, medieval city of Edinburgh: ramble up the Royal Mile, visit Edinburgh Castle, and tour the Palace of Holyroodhouse, the seat of the kings and queens for centuries.
Explore more ten-day UK itineraries for seniors on TourRadar.
Seven-day England itinerary for seniors
With its picture-perfect countryside, fascinating history, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cities, England is the perfect vacation destination to suit all types of travellers. If you want to discover the likes of London, Windsor, and Bath — along with quaint coastal villages and world-famous ancient monuments — consider these itineraries to help make trip planning effortless.
ITINERARY 1
- London - Start your explorations in this lively city with a narrated cruise on the River Thames to admire some of London’s most beautiful sights, such as Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament.
- Stratford-Upon-Avon - Stroll through this pretty Elizabethan town where Shakespeare was educated and inspired to become one of the world’s greatest playwrights.
- Stonehenge - On the way to Bath, stop at the mysterious, prehistoric site of Stonehenge to see one of the most famous ancient monuments in the world.
- Bath - Built nearly 2,000 years ago, the historic Roman Baths are a true highlight when visiting the gorgeous Georgian city of Bath.
Discover the full itinerary here: London & Country
ITINERARY 2
- London - Start your England vacation in the country’s exciting capital, filled with beautiful gardens, fascinating museums, celebrated monuments, and grand theatres.
- Windsor - Home to the largest and oldest occupied castle in the world, there’s plenty for history lovers to discover here.
- Bath- Explore the stately Georgian town of Bath, whose beautiful Pulteney Bridge and 15th-century Gothic Abbey provide a picturesque backdrop for the Roman Baths from which the city takes its name.
- Bristol - Join a guided walking tour to explore Bristol’s main sights, including the Clifton Suspension Bridge and Brunel's SS Great Britain, the world's first ocean-going luxury liner.
- St Ives - With its whitewashed cottages, quaint fishing harbour, and white-sand beaches, you might as though you’ve been temporarily transported to the Mediterranean in this picturesque seaside town.
Discover the full itinerary here: Best of Devon and Cornwall
Find more England itineraries for seniors on TourRadar.
Tips for first-time travellers to England and Scotland
Although the UK is a relatively safe and straightforward travel destination, there are a few key things you should keep in mind when travelling in England and Scotland. Read these handy tips to ensure you have a fantastic and hassle-free trip.
Things to know before you go
- Pound sterling (GBP) is the legal tender in England and Scotland
- Cars drive on the left side of the road in the United Kingdom. Remember to look right before crossing the street.
- Standard shift cars are the norm in the UK, so keep this in mind if you’re planning to rent a car
- Ask for the “WC” or “toilet” when you need the washroom/restroom. WC’s are most commonly found in department stores, museums, pubs, and train stations.
- Tipping is not expected in most places in the UK. If you’d like to leave a tip for good service at a restaurant, 10% is generally the rule of thumb.
- When using the London Underground, always stand on the right side of the escalator so busy commuters can pass on the left
Safety tips
The UK is considered to be a safe country to travel overall. Many major destinations in England and Scotland boast relatively low violent crime rates and low petty theft rates — especially compared to other large European cities.
Just like when you’re travelling in any new destination, you should always be aware of your surroundings and take extra precaution in crowds where pickpockets may be more prevalent. And, of course, be sure to purchase travel insurance before travelling to the UK.
The best time to visit England and Scotland
You can visit the UK at any time of the year, but avoiding the wettest and coldest months (typically between November and March) will make for a better travel experience. Spring, summer, and early autumn (between May and October) are some of the best times to visit the UK; however, these months also coincide with the high season, so you can expect more tourist crowds and inflated prices.
What to pack for travelling in the UK
No matter what season you’re visiting, you will need a variety of clothes to suit all weather conditions when travelling through England and Scotland. Be sure to pack warm layering pieces and waterproof gear, and always be prepared for both rain and sun.
Facts about the United Kingdom
- Major airports
- London Heathrow Airport, London Gatwick Airport, Manchester Airport, Edinburgh Airport
- Currency
- Pound sterling
- Capital city
- London
- Population
- 66 million
- Safety level
- High
Find your perfect tour of the United Kingdom
- -2% off
Grand Tour of Britain & Ireland
18 days • 4.8(113)- Explore Stonehenge's ancient mysteries Admire Bath's stunning Roman architecture Take a panoramic drive on the Ring of Kerry Visit Edinburgh Castle and see the Crown Jewels Tour the historic city of York and York Minster
From $4,339 $4,239 - -12% off
Britain and Ireland Highlights (10 Days)
10 days • 4.7(51)- Explore London's royal parks and historic streets Tour Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford Admire Lake Windermere's inspiring beauty Visit Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile Experience the Guinness Storehouse in Dublin
From $3,375 $2,970 - -12% off
Britain & Ireland Explorer (Classic, 15 Days)
15 days • 4.6(23)- Visit the birthplace of William Shakespeare Learn of the history of the iconic Hadrian's Wall Wander through the ancient Edinburgh Castle Fall in love with the natural beauty of the Lake District Keep an eye out for the legendary monster of Loch Ness Enjoy the craic during an Irish pub evening with the group
From $6,150 $5,412 10-Day United Kingdom and Ireland
10 days • 4.0(2)- Explore Cambridge's historic colleges Tour Edinburgh with a local guide Boat trip on Loch Ness and Urquhart Castle visit Stroll through Dublin's lively streets Visit Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford
From $2,549Aonghus Youth (19 destinations)
8 days • 3.9(11)- Explore Westminster and the Thames in London Tour Edinburgh Castle and its historic streets Cruise Loch Ness and visit Urquhart Castle Stroll through Dublin's vibrant downtown Visit Windsor Castle and enjoy Piccadilly nightlife
From $1,505- -12% off
Best of Britain (14 Days)
14 days • 4.3(38)- Rock out in the Beatles' home turf of Liverpool Enjoy a scenic drive through the Devon countryside Explore Scotland's pristine Isle of Skye Take in London's icons like Buckingham Palace
From $4,350 $3,828 - -34% off
Great Britain
7 days • 4.5(197)- Visit the historic walled city of York Included river punting experience in Cambridge Photo stop at Hadrian's Wall and Jedburgh Abbey Visit Stratford-Upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare Enjoy a free day to explore Edinburgh, the Scottish capital Experience the Scottish Highlands and the iconic Loch Ness
From $1,920 $1,265 Best of England, Wales and Scotland
19 days- Explore Oxford's historic university and city Punt along Oxford's scenic waterways Discover Cardiff's Dr Who filming sites Tour the Beatles' landmarks in Liverpool Cruise Loch Ness and hunt for Nessie
From $8,130
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