4 Days in England: Our Recommended Itineraries

Options for what to see and do in (and around) London are virtually limitless. Visit world-class museums such as the National Gallery and British Museum free of cost. The Beefeater-hosted tour at the Tower of London is an unmissable (and often gruesome!) experience. Climb the 259 steps to the dome of Christopher Wren’s masterpiece, St Paul’s Cathedral. Swing by Buckingham Palace and, if you’re lucky, catch the Changing of the Guard. For a more leisurely view of London, take a cruise down the Thames. For exclusive shopping, drop in at Harrods or stroll down Oxford Street. If you’re feeling peckish from all the sightseeing, Borough Market has been satisfying hungry tummies since 1756. Don’t forget about day trips further afield. Windsor, Oxford and Stonehenge are easily reached in a day. See more 4-day tours in London.

Jutting into the Atlantic on England’s South West Peninsula, the neighboring counties of Devon and Cornwall offer a short break full of natural beauty and history. The stark landscapes of Exmoor and Dartmoor National Parks contrast strongly with charming coastal communities like St. Ives and Paignton. Here you will find sandy beaches that feel almost Mediterranean alongside rugged and windswept coastline. Discover the ancient, rich and varied history and culture of the region. For 1,500 years, Tintagel Castle has been clinging to a rocky outcrop in the windswept Atlantic. Life for the Benedictine Monks at Buckfast Abbey has changed very little over the last 1,000 years. At Plymouth, you can uncover the origins of the Mayflower and see the very steps from which Britain’s first settlers departed to America. The remarkable Eden Project celebrates the natural world and is home to the world’s largest indoor rainforest. Uncover them all on this 4-day trip. See more 4-day itineraries in England.

This four day break takes you through the heart of southern England as you hop between fairy-tale-like towns and villages. Be inspired by the picturesque streets around Oxford University as countless authors, scientists, philosophers and politicians have over the last 900+ years. Brush up on your Shakespeare before heading to Stratford-Upon-Avon where you’ll visit the home and gardens of the world’s most celebrated author. Head south and take in the picture-postcard stone villages of the Cotswolds. Marvel at the Georgian splendor of Bath, hometown of Jane Austen, where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into one of her novels. Before returning to London, drop in at one of England’s great stately homes, Longleat House. Make a final stop at Avebury, an ancient site that rivals Stonehenge. 

Home to outstanding coastline and some of England’s most impressive castle ruins, Northumberland is the perfect destination for a four day walking break. Hike to the coastal castles of Lindisfarne and Dunstanburgh. Explore the wild and windswept Northumberland National Park, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Hike along some of the best preserved sections of Hadrian’s Wall and discover Roman archeological sites that are still being uncovered. Finish your break with a stop at Cragside House, a Victorian architectural gem that has extensive grounds and gardens. See more walking tours in England.

If you’re planning a four day trip to England, the only hard part is deciding where to go. With excellent rail and bus links, even to many smaller towns and villages, it’s very easy to get around. While most heavily visited towns and cities are largely pedestrian-friendly, self drive can be a great option for rural getaways, particularly in the south west and north of England. Alternatively, make life easy and join an organized holiday in England. If you need a little bit of inspiration, check out how many days you should spend in England.

Other related articles:
5 days in England
One week in England
10 days in England
2 weeks in England