This small, island nation has more history packed into its borders than you can shake a stick at. Outside the eclectic capital of London, you’ll find epic castles, sprawling stately homes and charming villages.
England
If you’re starting your UK adventure in London then prepare for a rush of iconic sights and must-see landmarks.
Linger here a few days and perhaps take in a West End show in the capital’s ‘Theatreland’, where world-famous actors tread the boards.
Explore the endless treasures of the British Museum, and witness the traditional pomp and circumstance of the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace.
Deckchairs and fish and chips are a staple of the English summer, so grab a slice of British sunshine in the southern seaside towns of Brighton or Bournemouth. Try surfing and seafood at the country’s picturesque southern tip in Cornwall.
The scholarly havens of Oxford and Cambridge are within driving distance of London and it’s here you’ll find the world’s oldest universities and some simply stunning architecture.
Driving north you’ll reach the medieval city of York with its ancient walls and maze of quaint shopping streets. For a break in the hills, the Peak District offers walks for every fitness level, alongside dramatic rock formations and stunning views.
Wales
The port city of Cardiff embraces old and new with its ancient fort and jazzed-up waterfront overlooking Cardiff Bay.
Wales has more National Parkland per square mile than any other nation in the UK. Escape the crowds in mountainous Snowdonia, where challenging hikes are rewarded with amazing mountain vistas.
Explore the crags and caves of the Brecon Beacons with walking trails for all levels and a host of fun outdoor family activities.
Scotland
Edinburgh is a UNESCO city of literature and steeped in history. Arrange car rental in Edinburgh and explore the narrow streets (known as wynds) and gothic spires that inspired Robert Louis Stevenson and JK Rowling.
Glasgow is Edinburgh’s lively, down-to-earth sister with a thriving music scene, buzzing nightlife and proud, friendly locals.
Drive north to the Highlands through rugged hillsides bristling with dusky pink heather and glassy lochs. Pause at Loch Ness to try to spot Nessie or take a car ferry to one of the many west coast islands where time seems to have stood still.
Northern Ireland
Belfast has blossomed into a handsome city with a deep maritime history. Witness the site where the Titanic was built at the Belfast Docks.
The Antrim Coast in the north offers one of the UK’s most spectacular drives along craggy cliffsides that plummet into the wild Atlantic.
Stop to marvel at the Giant’s Causeway’s mysterious rock formations. Northern Ireland’s first UNESCO Heritage Site, this is a spot steeped in Celtic myth and legend.
There’s an other-worldy feel to this famous landmark, which serves as one of the main filming locations for the Game of Thrones TV show.
Historic, charming, dramatic and impressive – you’ll find endless variety with the four nations of the UK.
Discover more with car rental in the United Kingdom from Hertz.
