Family-Friendly 12-Day England and Scotland Adventure Itinerary Without Dining Stops

Day 1: Explore London

London, England on April 24, 2025

10:00am

Visit the Tower of London

Explore the historic castle, see the Crown Jewels, and enjoy interactive exhibits perfect for children.
GBP29.90, 2h

2:00pm

Take a Thames River Cruise

Relax on a family-friendly cruise with scenic views of London landmarks like the Houses of Parliament and London Eye.
GBP15, 1h

4:00pm

Explore the Natural History Museum

Engage kids with dinosaur exhibits and interactive science displays. Open daily from 10am to 5:30pm.
Free, 2h

Day 2: London Sightseeing

London, England on April 25, 2025

9:30am

Visit the London Zoo

See over 750 animal species in a child-friendly zoo open from 10am to 5pm, great for an educational day out.
GBP26, 3h

2:30pm

Explore the Science Museum

Interactive exhibits and hands-on activities ideal for children, open till 6pm with free entry.
Free, 2h

Day 3: London to York

London to York, England on April 26, 2025

9:00am

Travel to York by train

Take a scenic 2-hour train ride north from London to York, perfect for resting or enjoying the countryside views.
GBP50 per adult, children discounted, 2h

1:00pm

Visit the Jorvik Viking Centre

Interactive museum where kids can learn about Viking history with reconstructed scenes and smells.
GBP13.50, 1.5h

3:00pm

Walk York City Walls

Enjoy a casual walk on ancient walls offering great views of the city, a fun and free outdoor activity.
Free, 1h

Day 4: York to Edinburgh

York, England to Edinburgh, Scotland on April 27, 2025

8:30am

Train to Edinburgh

Scenic 2.5 hour train journey from York to Edinburgh, ideal for relaxing and enjoying views of the Scottish Borders.
GBP60 per adult, discounted for children, 2.5h

1:00pm

Explore Edinburgh Castle

Iconic fortress offering history and stunning city views; children enjoy the Crown Jewels and the interactive exhibits.
GBP17.50, 2h

3:30pm

Walk the Royal Mile

Historic street with shops, street performers, and family-friendly stops like toy shops and whisky museums for adults.
Free, 1.5h

Day 5: Edinburgh Family Fun

Edinburgh, Scotland on April 28, 2025

9:30am

Visit the National Museum of Scotland

Free museum with fascinating exhibits including dinosaurs, space, and an interactive science center for kids.
Free, 3h

2:00pm

Arthur’s Seat Hike

Moderate, family-friendly hike up an extinct volcano for panoramic views of Edinburgh; pack snacks and water.
Free, 2h

Day 6: Day Trip Stirling & Loch Lomond

Edinburgh to Stirling, Scotland on April 29, 2025

8:30am

Drive to Stirling Castle

Explore the impressive castle and gardens; fun audio guides for kids available. Open 9:30am-5pm.
GBP16, 2h

1:00pm

Visit Loch Lomond Shores

Scenic area with shops, an aquarium, and boat trips; perfect for children and relaxing.
Aquarium GBP10, boat trip GBP15, 3h

5:30pm

Return to Edinburgh

Relax after a full day exploring spectacular Scottish landmarks.
Transport cost variable, 1h

Day 7: Edinburgh to Inverness

Edinburgh to Inverness, Scotland on April 30, 2025

9:00am

Train to Inverness

Scenic 3.5-hour train ride through the Highlands, providing stunning views and family resting time.
GBP55 per adult, discounted for children, 3.5h

2:00pm

Explore Inverness Castle Grounds

While the castle is not always open for tours, the grounds offer beautiful views of the River Ness and are great for kids to roam.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Walk along River Ness and visit Ness Islands

Scenic and peaceful walk with playgrounds and nature spots ideal for children’s exploration.
Free, 2h

Day 8: Loch Ness & Highland Wildlife

Inverness and Loch Ness, Scotland on May 1, 2025

9:00am

Loch Ness Cruise

One-hour boat cruise on Loch Ness to spot the mythical Nessie and enjoy breathtaking Highland scenery. Cruises operate 9am-6pm.
GBP17, 1h

10:30am

Visit Urquhart Castle

Explore this dramatic castle ruin overlooking Loch Ness, with interactive displays for children.
GBP12, 1.5h

2:00pm

Highland Wildlife Park

Discover native Scottish wildlife and exotic animals in a family-friendly park open from 10am to 4pm.
GBP14.50, 2h

Day 9: Inverness to Glasgow

Inverness to Glasgow, Scotland on May 2, 2025

8:30am

Train to Glasgow

Approximately 3.5-hour train journey south to vibrant Glasgow.
GBP40 per adult, discounted children fare, 3.5h

2:00pm

Visit Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum

Free museum with diverse exhibits – from art to natural history – great to engage children’s curiosity.
Free, 3h

Day 10: Glasgow Exploration

Glasgow, Scotland on May 3, 2025

10:00am

Glasgow Science Centre

Interactive science and technology exhibits with planetarium shows, perfect for family fun. Open 10am-5pm.
GBP12, 3h

2:30pm

Visit Pollok Country Park and Burrell Collection

Large park great for kids to explore with playgrounds and the Burrell Collection's art and artifacts. Park open all day, museum 10am-5pm.
Free, 3h

Day 11: Glasgow to London

Glasgow to London, England on May 4, 2025

7:30am

Train from Glasgow to London

Long 4.5-hour train trip south to London, perfect for relaxing after Scotland adventures.
GBP70 per adult, discounted children fare, 4.5h

2:00pm

Check-in and rest

Check into hotel and take rest or explore nearby neighborhood casually.
Variable, 3h

Day 12: Departure Day

London, England on May 5, 2025

10:00am

Pack and check-out

Prepare for departure with ample time to reach the airport or train station.
Free, 2h