Edinburgh or York?
 

I have been planning our vacation for awhile. I have everything planned except for a few days. I've been told not to plan to see too many places otherwise I'm traveling more than enjoying. Here's my itinerary:
Day 1 London-not sure of arrival time
Day 2 London tower of London, West Minster Abbey
Day 3 London Either Hampton Court or ?
Day 4 London Greenwich village tour
Day 5-6 This is where I need help. I want to travel to either Edinburgh Scotland or York. York is much closer, but I have always wanted to see Edinburgh. I will only have this travel day and one more day. Would this be wasted and can York be worthwhile especially without a car.
Fly to Ireland
Day 7-17(10 days in Ireland exploring family history)
Return home
Please help me for those that know what the distances are like, and is York a good substitute for Edinburgh?
Thanks

York is about 2 hours by train from London while Edinburgh is closer to 5. For the limited time you have, you could see a lot of York since it's smalller and pretty compact. Edinburgh is a much larger city, so a full day doesn't seem like enough time. There would be no reason to have a car in either place.

Take the Caledonian Sleeper to Edinburgh - you trave overnight & save hotel costs

See www.firstscotrail.com and check out their bargain berths first.

Having said that York is very nice, has a proper cathedral and city walls

BTW if you do go to York book your tickets through www.gner.co.uk several weeks in advance as it's MUCH cheaper

How much time have you spent in London previously? Because there are a million more things to see than just the Tower and Westminster Abbey. Plus, you are planning side trips on days 3 and 4. I'd recommend just staying in London for day 5 and 6, and then you can easily fly out to Ireland.

It's easy to fly to Ireland from either Edinburgh or York (use Leeds/Bradford). Either airport is preferable to the hell holes that pass for London airports these days (except City of course)

With the limited time you have, I'd agree that you're better off seeing York and save Edinburgh for another trip when you have more time. We thoroughly enjoyed York. As others have said, it is very compact, walkable, wonderful architecture, nice shops and restaurants, and interesting history. Cathedral itself is worth spending several hours.