12 Days in England: Thrills, Football, and Iconic Sights
England, a country steeped in history and brimming with modern attractions, offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. From the bustling streets of London to the serene countryside, England is a land of contrasts. Known for its iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Stonehenge, England also boasts a vibrant cultural scene, world-class museums, and a rich sporting heritage. The cuisine ranges from traditional fish and chips to innovative modern dishes, reflecting the country's multicultural influences. Whether you're a history buff, a thrill-seeker, or a sports enthusiast, England has something to offer.
For this 12-day itinerary, we'll focus on the excitement of theme parks, the passion of football, and the allure of London's historic and cultural sites. With a budget-conscious approach, you'll experience the best of England without breaking the bank. Let's dive into this adventure!
London at a Glance
- Iconic landmarks: Big Ben, Tower of London, Buckingham Palace
- World-class museums: British Museum, National Gallery
- Vibrant neighborhoods: Soho, Camden, Shoreditch
- Best areas to stay: Covent Garden, South Bank, Kensington
Day 1: Arrival in London
Arrive in London in the afternoon. Check into your accommodation in the heart of the city. For the best options, explore VRBO or Hotels.com. Spend your evening strolling along the Thames River, taking in the illuminated sights of the city.
Day 2: Exploring London
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Tower of London. Consider the VIP Tower of London and Crown Jewels Tour for an exclusive experience.

Afternoon: Head to Westminster to see Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. Don't miss the chance to explore Westminster Abbey.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Dishoom in Covent Garden, known for its Bombay-inspired cuisine.
Day 3: Football Fever
Morning: Visit the iconic Wembley Stadium for a tour. Learn about its history and the legendary matches played here.
Afternoon: Head to Stamford Bridge, home of Chelsea FC, for another stadium tour. Experience the passion of English football.
Evening: Dine at The Harwood Arms, a Michelin-starred pub offering modern British cuisine.
Alton Towers at a Glance
- Thrilling rides: The Smiler, Nemesis, Oblivion
- Beautiful gardens and historic towers
- Family-friendly attractions and events
- Best areas to stay: Nearby hotels or lodges within the park
Day 4: Travel to Alton Towers
Morning: Travel to Alton Towers via train from London. Use Omio for train schedules and bookings.
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation near Alton Towers. Spend the afternoon exploring the beautiful gardens and historic towers.
Evening: Relax with a casual dinner at the Rollercoaster Restaurant, where your food is delivered via a mini rollercoaster track.
Day 5: Alton Towers Adventure
Morning: Start your day with thrilling rides like The Smiler and Nemesis. Alton Towers offers a variety of attractions for all ages.
Afternoon: Continue your adventure with family-friendly rides and attractions. Don't miss the water park for a refreshing break.
Evening: Enjoy a leisurely dinner at the Secret Garden Restaurant, offering a range of delicious dishes in a charming setting.
Thorpe Park at a Glance
- Adrenaline-pumping rides: Stealth, The Swarm, Colossus
- Seasonal events and themed attractions
- Best areas to stay: Nearby hotels or lodges within the park
- Fun fact: Home to the UK's fastest rollercoaster, Stealth
Day 6: Travel to Thorpe Park
Morning: Travel to Thorpe Park from Alton Towers. Consider renting a car for convenience, or use Omio for train options.
Afternoon: Check into your accommodation near Thorpe Park. Spend the afternoon exploring the park's attractions.
Evening: Dine at Fin's Bar & Grill, offering a variety of meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
Day 7: Thrills at Thorpe Park
Morning: Kick off your day with rides like Stealth and The Swarm. Thorpe Park is known for its adrenaline-pumping attractions.
Afternoon: Explore themed areas and enjoy seasonal events. Take a break with a leisurely lunch at one of the park's eateries.
Evening: Head back to London for the night. Use Omio for travel options.
Day 8: More London Adventures
Morning: Visit the British Museum, home to a vast collection of world art and artifacts.
Afternoon: Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Camden, known for its eclectic markets and street food.
Evening: Enjoy a show in the West End, London's famous theater district. Consider dining at The Ivy, a classic London restaurant.
Day 9: Day Trip to Stonehenge and Bath
Join a guided tour to Stonehenge and Bath. Consider the Stonehenge, Windsor Castle, and Bath from London tour for a comprehensive experience.

Day 10: Harry Potter Magic
Morning: Visit the Warner Bros. Studio Tour for a magical journey into the world of Harry Potter. Book the Harry Potter Warner Bros. Studio Tour with Transport from London for convenience.

Afternoon: Return to London and explore the South Bank, home to the London Eye and Tate Modern.
Evening: Enjoy a dinner cruise on the Thames River for a unique dining experience. Consider the London Dinner Cruise on the Thames River.

Day 11: Final Day in London
Morning: Visit the Natural History Museum, a favorite for its impressive dinosaur exhibits and stunning architecture.
Afternoon: Spend your last afternoon shopping in Oxford Street or exploring the charming streets of Notting Hill.
Evening: Celebrate your last night with a meal at Sketch, known for its quirky decor and innovative menu.
Day 12: Departure
Spend your final morning enjoying a leisurely breakfast at a local café. Head to the airport for your afternoon departure, reflecting on the incredible experiences of your 12-day journey through England.
This itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable trip to England. From the thrills of theme parks to the historic charm of London, you'll leave with unforgettable memories and a desire to return.