Perfect 10 Days in England Itinerary to see it all
Are you thinking about visiting England and wondering how you’ll get to see it all? This 10 days in England itinerary is just what you need. It covers everything from the most iconic landmarks to world-class museums, royal palaces, and beautiful quaint villages where you can learn more about England’s rich history.
You’ll see the country’s vibrant culture through its famous food, the bustling capital city, and historic towns, which are among the most beautiful cities in Europe.
There are plenty of things to do in England that it’s nearly impossible to see and do it all. But with this England itinerary for 10 days, you can expect to see the country’s most famous sights and a few hidden gems worth adding to your next UK itinerary.
Ultimate 10 days in England itinerary to see it all
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
10-day England itinerary | At a glance
From the depths of Central London to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Stonehenge, this ultimate 10 days in England itinerary shows you the best of this stunning country.
Here’s a glance at how you’ll be spending your 10 days in England:
- Day 1 to 4 of 10 days in England itinerary: Explore the best attractions and historical landmarks in London city
- Day 5 of 10 days in England itinerary: Take a day trip to Windsor
- Day 6 to 8 of 10 days in England itinerary: Experience life from a storybook in The Cotswolds
- Day 9 of 10 days in England itinerary: Spend the day exploring Bath’s rich Roman history
- Day 10 of 10 days in England itinerary: Explore the UNESCO-listed city of Stonehenge
Arrival in England, United Kingdom
You’ll be arriving in London either at Heathrow or Gatwick Airport, as those are the main international airports in the United Kingdom. We traveled from Canada and arrived at the Gatwick Airport, and flew back from Heathrow.
Heathrow Airport is the country’s busiest airport, so chances are higher that your flight will land there from the United States. It’s about 25.7 km (16 miles) from Central London, so you can either get a rental car or book a private transfer to drive to your accommodation.
There are many places to stay in the city center; try staying at one of the London hotels with river views for an unforgettable stay.
Day 1 of 10 days in England itinerary: London’s best attractions and historical landmarks
England is more than just London, yes. But you can’t possibly see and experience the best of this country without visiting its capital.
The first four days of your England itinerary will take you through the best attractions and landmarks in London.
To make the most of your visit, grab the London Pass that allows you to save money on transportation as well as access to more than 85 top attractions, tours, and museums.
It also includes one round of hop-on and hop-off sightseeing bus tours at no extra cost. Get your London Pass here
Where to stay in London:
London has many great accommodation options. From luxury to mid-range and budget hotels, you’re sure to find the one for you. Here are a few options you should check out:
- Vintry & Mercer: Enjoy being steps away from London’s most famous sights at this elegantly-decorated 5-star hotel. Book your stay here
- The Westminster London: Get stunning views of the River Thames while enjoying American steakhouse or Asian cuisine at this elegant hotel. Book your stay here
- Motel One London-Tower Hill: Get access to bustling eateries on Brick Lane and a vibrant Shoreditch nightlife without breaking the budget at this designer hotel. Book your stay here
London is the epicenter of England’s history and culture. This historic city is dotted with stunning cathedrals, palaces, museums, and vibrant neighborhoods. Here are a few things to do during your four days in London.
Tower Bridge
London’s Tower Bridge is one of the city’s standout landmarks. Standing at 800 feet across the River Thames, Tower Bridge is a suspension and bascule bridge, meaning it opens up to let big ships pass through.
Walk across the bridge for great views of the HMS Belfast warship museum. If you would enjoy a Tower Bridge exhibition, consider booking a tour of the bridge, and get to its Victorian engine rooms and the glass walkway about 140 feet above the water.
Tower of London
After crossing the bridge, make your way to the famous Tower of London. This historic castle sits on the north bank of the river and is most famous for being a royal residence during war times and a prison where prisoners were publicly executed.
There are a lot of interesting facts about the Tower of London, including that it’s home to the famous crown jewels. Take a Tower of London tour and get a warm welcome from the Yeoman Warders before visiting the Jewel House.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most iconic landmarks in England. This Anglican cathedral has one of the world’s largest domes and is a great place to admire London’s Neoclassical English Baroque-style architecture.
If you’d like to see more than just the exterior, buy a St. Paul’s Cathedral entry ticket and get to see the cathedral’s ornate nave, crypt, and three galleries. You can also walk up to the top of the dome for panoramic views of the city.
Trafalgar Square
This bustling public square is one of the most significant in London. Built as a celebration of the British victory against the French and Spanish in the Battle of Trafalgar, this square is also home to top attractions like the National Gallery.
Trafalgar Square is a popular tourist hotspot. The square’s two fountains and soaring monument guarded by lion statues are worth taking pictures of, so bring your camera.
London Eye
The Millennium Wheel, popularly known as the London Eye, is one of the world’s largest Ferris wheels. This monumental observation wheel is 443 feet long and has a diameter of 394 feet. You can catch a ride on the London Eye and get 360-degree views of London.
Big Ben
Big Ben is an unmissable landmark in London. It was renamed to “Elizabeth Tower” in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012, but locals and tourists still call it Big Ben.
This colossal clock tower stands at about 320 feet and is one of the most picturesque spots in London.
Day 2 of 10 days in England itinerary: Enjoy a royal experience in the capital city
As the capital, London has been home to many monarchs throughout the centuries. Spend day two of your 10 days in England getting a glimpse of the royal lifestyle.
Palace of Westminster
Your second day in England starts where the first one ended – at Big Ben. The Palace of Westminster, also known as the Houses of Parliament, is a Victorian and Gothic structure, making it one of the most postcard-worthy sights in London.
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic churches in the world.
It’s best known for hosting coronations (including the upcoming coronation of King Charles III) and being a burial site for many monarchs like Elizabeth I and Mary Queen of Scots.
You can buy an entrance ticket to Westminster Abbey and get to stroll through a thousand years of history with the help of an audio-guided tour.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is arguably the most famous royal residence in England. It has served as an abode for monarchs since 1837 and currently serves as the administrative headquarters.
Marveling at the iron gates, the guards, and Buckingham Palace from the outside is a great experience, but there is so much more. You can also get a tour of the state rooms and browse the Royal Collection, which includes paintings by Rembrandt, Rubens, and Canaletto.
Tip: If you’d like to see the Changing of The King’s Guard, make sure you get there early before the masses arrive. This ceremony starts at 10:45 am and lasts for about 45 minutes.
The Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace
After exploring the state rooms, head over to the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace. These equestrian stables boast an extensive collection of royal carriages and coaches.
On display, you’ll see the Gold State Coach – a 260-year-old gilded carriage that’s been used for every coronation since William IV.
Also, keep your eyes peeled for horses that pull the carriages. The Windsor Greys are used by monarchs and their guests, while Cleveland Bays are used by high commissioners and ambassadors.
Day 3 of England Itinerary 10 days: Experience the best museums in Central London
London is home to some of the best museums in Europe. Outside of British history and culture, you’ll also get to see historical artifacts and relics from across the globe.
Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is a must-see attraction in London, famous for its extensive range of specimen exhibits.
From dinosaur skeletons to fossils, minerals, and rare plants, this museum boasts over 80 million specimens on display. And the best part is, it’s free!
You can take a private tour of the Natural History Museum to see highlights that you would have otherwise missed. You’ll also get to hear stories behind the exhibits from an expert guide.
Victoria and Albert Museum
If you’re an art aficionado, this is the museum for you. The Victoria and Albert Museum is the largest in the world for applied and decorative arts, as well as design.
It boasts over two million objects from various historical eras and cultures from across the world.
The National Gallery
Art enthusiasts will also love the National Gallery. This art museum is home to about 2,300 paintings dating back to the 13th and 19th centuries.
The National Gallery houses some of the world’s most famous masterpieces from the likes of Van Gogh, Picasso, Da Vinci, Botticelli, and Rembrandt.
If you’d like to learn more about the artworks, take a guided tour and see the best of the gallery’s marvelous pieces with the help of an art expert.
The British Museum
If you’re keen to learn more about human history, culture, and art, there’s no better place than at the UK’s largest museum.
The British Museum boasts a vast collection of artworks from famous empires like ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
A guided tour of the British Museum takes you through the highlights, including the Rosetta Stone and the controversial Elgin Marbles.
Day 4 of England Itinerary 10 days: London off-the-beaten-track attractions
Discover the best of London’s bustling city life at one (if not all) of these off-the-beaten-path attractions.
Little Venice
Located in West London, Little Venice is a charming canal neighborhood boasting quaint boathouses, as well as waterside cafes and pubs. It’s one of the most picturesque areas in London and definitely worth a visit.
Kensington Palace
This stunning royal residence often gets overlooked by tourists, but they are missing out.
Set in the beautiful Kensington Gardens, this palace is where Prince William and Kate live with their children, it also hosts a range of historical artifacts worth browsing.
Tip: Want to know more about the history of the palace and which monarchs have lived there? Book a Kensington Palace ticket and hear surprising stories about the royal family.
Stamford Bridge Stadium
If you’re familiar with football (or soccer in the US), you’ll know that England’s Premier League is one of the best-rated in the world. So unsurprisingly, football is a big part of English culture.
Get a ticket and experience patrons chanting, singing, and coaching from the stands at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea FC’s home ground. You can also head west to see a Fulham FC game at Craven Cottage.
Borough Market
The Borough Market is one of London’s oldest and largest markets. Many foodies will love browsing the more than 100 stalls and food stands of the market selling everything from cured meats to pastries, fish, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
The market opens Tuesday through Sunday, from 10:00 am (9:00 am on Saturdays) to 5:00 pm (4:00 pm on Sundays).
Tip: If you’d like to see more of London’s street food culture, you can take this secret food-tasting and walking tour around the city.
Day 5 of 10 days in England itinerary: Go on a day trip to Windsor
Windsor is a historic town about an hour’s drive from London. It’s home to the magnificent Windsor Castle, but there’s so much more you can do here.
Windsor Castle
Windsor Castle is the town’s most significant attraction, and that’s why many tourists take a day trip from London to see it.
It is the world’s largest and oldest inhabited castle, and it boasts a vast collection of royal treasures, apartments, and paintings.
You can get a peek into Windsor Castle with this admission ticket to a self-guided tour.
St. George’s Chapel
St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle is a medieval Gothic-style building famous for being the burial ground for many English monarchs, including the late Queen Elizabeth II.
It was also the venue for Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s wedding.
Note: The Windsor Castle admission ticket also gives you access to St. George’s Chapel.
The Long Walk
Lined with leafy oak, chestnut, and London plane trees on each side, the Long Walk is a nearly three-mile path stretching from the George IV Gateway at Windsor Castle to the Copper Horse statue. This is a great pathway to take a leisurely stroll after seeing the castle.
Windsor & Eton Brewery
Wrap up your day with a refreshing pint at Windsor & Eton Brewery. This quaint and rustic taproom offers a great selection of local craft beers. You can enjoy anything from ales to lagers and IPAs.
Day 6 to 8 of 10 days in England itinerary: Live the fairytale life in the Cotswolds
The Cotswolds is a magical place in the UK officially declared an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in 1996. It boasts idyllic villages, enchanting rolling green hills, and old buildings made from honey-colored limestone.
Where to stay in the Cotswolds:
Since you’ll be spending a few nights in the Cotswolds, here are a few accommodation options to consider:
- The Fleece at Cirencester: Situated in the city center, this 300-year-old building still has its original beams and log fires. Book your stay here
- The Old Stocks Inn: This 17th-century coaching inn overlooks a stunning green landscape and offers great al-fresco dining. Book your stay here
- The Broadway Hotel: Enjoy a regal stay at this 16th-century timber and Cotswolds-stone hotel and experience staying in their 19 individually-designed bedrooms. Book your stay here
Day 6 – Cirencester
Cirencester is often called the capital of the Cotswolds due to its central location in the region.
It’s not a popular tourist attraction, but it’s a worthy addition to your Cotswolds itinerary as it has numerous interesting buildings, lodging options, and great restaurants.
You can start your day by visiting the Corinium Museum. You’ll find ancient relics from the region’s Roman heritage. Then head over to New Brewery Arts. This is a hub for visual and performing arts and crafts, situated in a Converted brewery.
And if you’d like to buy a few trinkets or souvenirs to take home, you’ll find great options at the craft shop.
Next, take a short drive to Arlington Row in Bibury, where you’ll find a stunning set of heritage buildings. The cottages on Awkward Hill are the most popular and picturesque collection of buildings, so remember to bring your camera.
Day 7 – Bourton-on-the-Water & Stow-on-the-Wold
The Cotswolds has lots of stunning villages and old towns, and Bourton-on-the-Water and Stow-on-the-Wold are two that you should not skip.
Bourton-on-the-Water is a riverside village with charming stone houses and low-lying bridges. You can visit the town’s Cotswold Motoring Museum for a preview of cars from the 20th century.
Next, you can visit the Model Village, where you can stroll through and take pictures of a miniature version of Bourton-on-the-Water.
Stow-on-the-Wold is an old town sitting atop an 800-foot hill, making it the highest town in the Cotswolds. You can enjoy various walking tours around town; famous attractions include the medieval St. Edward’s Church, where you’ll find the mesmerizing hobbit door.
Tip: If you’re not staying overnight in the Cotswolds, this full-day tour from London takes you through Bourton-on-the-Water, Stow-on-the-Wold, and the nearby city of Burford.
Day 8 – Broadway
Spend your last day in the Cotswolds on Broadway. This village lies at the foot of Cotswolds Hills and is dominated by a tree-lined street dotted with charming eateries, hotels, and shops.
Spend your day roaming the idyllic streets and visiting museums like the Gordon Russell Design Museum and the Broadway Museum & Art Gallery.
Day 9 of 10 days in England itinerary: Explore the historical town of Bath
Spend one day in Bath, exploring the town’s elegant tearooms, cafes, and stunning Georgian and Neoclassical Palladian architecture. Bath is a very walkable city, and it has been famous since the Middle Ages thanks to its wool industry.
Read: Is Bath worth visiting?
Roman Baths
The Roman Baths are, without a doubt, the most popular attraction in town. Dating back to 70 AD, this well-preserved complex of changing rooms and plunge pools gives you a sneak peek into how people socialized 2,000 years ago.
You can visit the Roman Baths interactive museum, where you’ll learn more about the history of the complex, and you may even get to dip your toes in the water.
Afterward, you can head over to Bath Abbey to marvel at the magnificent Gothic architecture.
The Jane Austen Centre
Located just a short stroll away from Bath Abbey, and the Roman Baths is the Jane Austen Centre. The novelist spent several years living and writing in Bath, and visiting this centre is a great way to understand the times and how she lived.
It will take about an hour to explore all the exhibits. You can click to buy a ticket here (all-day validity).
Two of Jane Austen’s novels are set in the city – Northanger Abbey and Persuasion.
Sally Lunn’s House
Get a quintessential experience at the oldest house in Bath. Sally Lunn’s House is a historic restaurant and tearoom famous for the Sally Lunn Bun – a semi-sweet bread often served with tea.
The restaurant is still functional, so you can enjoy a tasty breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner. You can also browse through their Kitchen Museum, where you’ll see the actual kitchen used by Sally Lunn.
Royal Crescent
Your final stop in Bath is the famous Royal Crescent. This half-moon-shaped row of 30 terraced houses is one of the most photographed buildings in England and an exquisite display of Georgian architecture.
After taking pictures, make sure you pop into the No. 1 Royal Crescent. This heritage museum is furnished with period-appropriate furnishings, household objects, and decor that captures what it would have been like living and working in these ancient buildings.
Note: Plan to return to London by evening, stay here on nights 9 and 10.
Day 10 of 10 days in England itinerary: Marvel at Stonehenge
Stonehenge is an attraction in England that needs no introduction. This iconic stone circle in Southern England is a designated UNESCO Heritage Site and one of the world’s most extraordinary prehistoric monuments.
Stonehenge Visitor Center
Start your day at the Stonehenge Visitor Center. This is where you’ll get all clued up about the unconfirmed origins of the stone circle.
You’ll also find parking, restrooms, a grab-and-go cafe, and picnic areas with views of Stonehenge.
Stonehenge Complex
Catch a bus from the visitor center to get to the Stonehenge complex, which takes about 10 minutes. Make sure you download an audio tour from the visitor center to guide you through the complex.
Take your time strolling through the nearly 100 colossal upright sarsen stones, and see if you can figure out how the Neolithic builders constructed this complex – and why it took them nearly 1,500 years.
Salisbury Cathedral
End your 10 days in England itinerary at the breathtaking Salisbury Cathedral in the city centre. This Gothic Anglican cathedral was founded in 1220 as a response to the worsening relationships between the clergy and the military.
Fun Fact: Salisbury Cathedral is home to one of the four surviving Magna Carta documents from 1215.
Sightseeing Map: England 10 Day Itinerary
Alternate England Itinerary: Culture and Nature Lovers
We will share an alternate 10 days in England trip which is a perfect blend of city, culture, and nature activities. For this travel itinerary, plan to arrive in London, and spend 3 days here.
Day 1 to 3: London
Set aside the first day itinerary in exploring the city centre of London. Start with a tour of Buckingham Palace and Westminster Abbey, before visiting the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben.
Then take a stroll through the awe-inspiring St Paul’s Cathedral and explore the world-famous British Museum. Don’t forget to take a boat tour along the River Thames, or an iconic red bus to explore London’s vibrant markets and unique shops.
Keep day 3 for special sightseeing activities – if you are a museum lover, visit all the iconic places such as the Natural History Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, National Gallery, Tate British, Churchill Museum, etc.
If you love to shop, hit shops on Regent Street, King’s Road, Oxford Street, Piccadilly, or Bond Street.
For Harry Potter fans, you can also book the Warner Bros Studio tour from London. You will learn all the behind-the-scenes secrets of making the Harry Potter series, along with its whimsical sets, props, and costumes. Book the experience here
Day 4: Lake District
From London, you can take in some of England’s most iconic landscapes in the Lake District.
Spend the day exploring its tranquil lake shores, traditional villages, and picturesque towns.
Admire rolling hillsides, rocky outcrops, lush green valleys, and dramatic peaks. Visit the cultural home of authors such as Wordsworth and Beatrix Potter and soak up some of England’s most breathtaking views.
Note: You can travel to Lake District by train (London Euston train station) or embark on a road trip for the remainder of a one week itinerary, before traveling back to London to fly out.
Day 5: York
The next stop is North Yorkshire where you can explore the ancient city of York with its superb cathedral, beautiful castle, and cobbled streets.
Lake District to York train is about 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Spend the day discovering its 2,000 years of history and uncovering tales of plague and devastation.
Take in some of England’s best-preserved medieval architecture and visit the city’s many attractions including York Minster, York Castle Museum, the Jorvik Viking Centre, and The Shambles.
Day 6: Yorkshire Dales National Park
The Yorkshire Dales National Park is a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, rugged valleys, and stunning countryside. By taking a day trip to this area (1.50 hours drive from York), you will be able to experience the beauty of the Yorkshire Dales first-hand.
Head up to Malham Cove for some spectacular views across the valley or take a walk through one of the many limestone pavements. You can also admire the impressive Pen-y-ghent, a distinctive hill overlooking the dales.
Pen-y-ghent hike can be completed in 4 hours, and enjoyed by large groups and families alike.
For those wanting to explore more of the countryside, you can take a guided tour around one of the many traditional villages that dot the landscape.
Venture into Hawes for some unique shops and galleries, and learn about the history of the area.
Day 7 to 9: Devon – Dartmoor National Park
After that, you can head south to Devon and journey through Dartmoor National Park. It will be a long drive from York, but it is worth it, and we recommend booking accommodation for the next few nights here. You can easily spend 2-3 days exploring the park.
At the Dartmoor National Park, explore the vast landscape of rocky tors, meandering rivers, and lush valleys. Take in views of the wild moors across from tranquil villages and discover hidden gems including ancient burial grounds, historic churches, and mysterious standing stones.
Top spots to include: Haytor (home to the visitor centre), Black Tor, Brent Tor, and Brentor Church.
The Tors are the reason why people visit Dartmoor, and Tors refer to the dramatic granite rock formations that are found dotted everywhere at the national park.
Also, stop by the Postbridge Clapper Bridge, Lustleigh (village), and Bellever Forest for hikes and walks.
Day 10: Drive or travel to London
After exploring Dartmoor, plan to travel back to London to fly out the next day.
Other sightseeing and travel tips for England Itinerary 10 days
You can further make adjustments to the above itinerary as follows:
- Day 1 to 3: London
- Day 4 to 5: York
Spend 2 days in the English countryside visiting iconic cities and towns such as Bath, Stratford Upon Avon, and Oxford. You can also add 2 days in the Cotswolds and set aside one day for Stonehenge.
Days 6 to 7 in Bath + Stratford Upon Avon and Oxford:
Spend a day in Bath and then the next day visit Oxford and Stratford Upon Avon on a guided excursion.
Explore ancient universities such as Oxford University, grand cathedrals, and stunning Georgian architecture, or journey through the English countryside on a vintage steam train ride.
Days 8 to 9 in Cotswolds:
Check off the Blenheim Palace, and later wander the beautiful villages of Cotswolds such as Castle Combe, Chipping Campden, Bourton On the Water, and beyond.
Day 10 in Stonehenge:
You can end your trip with a visit to Stonehenge, one of England’s oldest sites that still continues to fascinate visitors today.
Gaze upon its iconic megaliths, standing tall and adorned with mystery – allowing you to marvel at the wonders of England’s ancient past.
Extending your 10 days in England Itinerary
By the end of your 10 days in England, you will have experienced some of its best sights and attractions – giving you a fantastic insight into the culture, history, and beauty that lies within this fascinating country.
Want to explore more? We have a detailed United Kingdom itinerary for 10 days, which covers cities like Cardiff and Edinburgh in Scotland.
If you wish to cover just the highlights of England with the UK, then you may like this sightseeing agenda,
Day 1 – 3: London and Windsor
Day 4: Wales day trip. It is possible to explore Cardiff on a day trip from London, and visit the castle complex, sightseeing cruise, museums, and hang out at the Arcades
Day 5 – 6: Cotswolds
Day 7 – 8: Travel to the Scottish capital city of Edinburgh. Visit the Edinburgh Castle, Royal Mile, Princes Street Gardens, and Arthur’s Seat
Day 9 – 10: Scottish Highlands and beyond. You can keep Edinburgh as a base and take a day trip to explore Loch Ness and nearby areas.
If you are a Harry Potter fan, you can also book a Hogwarts Express tour from Edinburgh
Ultimate England Itinerary: 10 days to see it all | Wrapped up
England is a great destination to visit in Europe. Its numerous castles, palaces, and ancient city walls make it a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts. And if you’re into nature, England has spectacular rolling hills and national parks that you’ll love.
Art aficionados will appreciate England’s vast collection of galleries and museums, there’s even street art for you to enjoy.
As you can see, there are plenty of things to do in England, and that’s why you’ll need at least a week to 10 days to explore all of its landmarks and attractions.
Read more of our UK travel guides:
- One day in Cardiff itinerary
- One day in Edinburgh itinerary
- Scotland itinerary 4 days
- London bucket list
Pin: Perfect 10 days in England Itinerary
