Crafting the Perfect UK Itinerary: A 12-Day Adventure Through London, York, and Edinburgh
Hello, fellow travelers! This September, my wife and I are embarking on an unforgettable journey to the UK, and we’re eager to make the most of our time there. Hailing from Taiwan, this trip feels monumental, as the chances of us returning are quite slim.
Reflecting on our previous travels, particularly a month-long trip across Europe post-Covid, I learned the importance of fully immersing myself in each destination. My biggest regret was assuming one main museum per city was adequate. I missed out on countless art and sculpture masterpieces that I may never have the opportunity to see again. This time around, I’m ready to speed through galleries if it means experiencing more iconic pieces.
After weeks of meticulous planning through various resources and this community, I’m seeking your insights! I would appreciate any tips on must-see museums or landmarks that require advance reservations. Avoiding lengthy queues is crucial, as they can derail the best-laid plans. Additionally, I’d love information on dining—specifically, the latest times for dinner, as many restaurants in Taipei close their kitchens by 8 PM.
I’m also a passionate film enthusiast. If you know of any iconic film locations within my itinerary that are worth a visit, please share! Moreover, I have a keen interest in discovering cafes or bars once frequented by notable historical figures.
Thank you for your help!
Our Itinerary Breakdown
London (7 Days at Premier Inn Blackfriars)
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Central London
– Touchdown at Heathrow Airport by 5 AM
– Take the Elizabeth Line to our hotel to stow our luggage
– Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Hyde Park Corner to St James Palace for the Changing of the Guard at 10:20 AM
– Quick lunch followed by a visit to Westminster Abbey (approximately 3 hours)
– Optional visit to Tate Britain
– Explore stunning sights at Westminster Bridge (Big Ben, House of Parliament, London Eye)
– Check out Waterloo Station and the Graffiti Tunnel
– Dinner to wrap up the day
Day 2: Historic Insights and Markets
– Visit the Tower of London at 9 AM (reservation made) and see the Crown Jewels, followed by a Beefeater tour
– Lunch at Borough Market
– Optional quick visit to Tate Modern
– Dinner followed by a pint at The Anchor (Shakespeare’s
Insightful Tips for an Enriching UK Journey
First of all, kudos for such a detailed and well-thought-out itinerary! As a London resident, I’d like to share a few suggestions that might enhance your experience and help you avoid some common travel pitfalls.
When planning museum visits, I recommend checking for advance booking options for popular spots like the British Museum, The National Gallery, or Tate Modern. Many museums now offer timed tickets that can save hours of queuing, especially during peak seasons.
For the culinary aspect, consider exploring local pubs and late-opening restaurants. Some pubs in central London stay open until midnight or later, providing a more authentic and relaxed dining experience after a day of sightseeing.
Regarding film locations, London is a treasure trove! Places like:
And for history buffs interested in cafes and bars once visited by notable figures, try to find pubs like The Nellie Dean