Majestic Isles: London to the Highlands in 10 Days

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Advisor - Holly Griffin
Curated By

Holly Griffin

  • City Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • London

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

  • Sightseeing

Advisor - Majestic Isles: London to the Highlands in 10 Days
Curator’s statement

Embark on a journey through the heart of the United Kingdom, exploring the rich history, culture and breathtaking landscapes of London, Edinburgh and the Scottish Highlands. London offers a perfect blend of modern sophistication and timeless landmarks like the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace. Edinburgh enchants with its cobbled streets, medieval Old Town and iconic Edinburgh Castle. Scotland's countryside provides a serene escape, with rolling hills, historic castles and the legendary Loch Ness. Together, these destinations create a harmonious tapestry of urban energy, historic grandeur and natural beauty. This makes for an unforgettable adventure.

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Day 1: London Arrival

Once you arrive in London, buy an Oyster card to get around the city with ease. Deliver your luggage to your hotel so you can begin exploring. Walk around central London and near your hotel to get a feel for the city.

Take your turn on the London Eye to see the city from a bird's eye view.

Explore the historic Thames River with a dinner cruise during sunset to cap off a great first day.

Day 2: Sites & West End

Visit the British Museum (open daily 10-5:30). Opt for a private tour to see the highlights.

Visit the Tower of London and see the Crown Jewels and Raven Master, or visit Buckingham Palace and enjoy the gardens.

Attend a show in the West End. See something related to British History in Six: The Musical, or one of my favorites, Hadestown.

Day 3: Tour & fine dining

Harry Potter fans rejoice! Take a tour of Warner Bros. Studio and get an insider's look at how the incredible film series was created.

After returning to downtown, how about Indian food at Michelin-starred restaurant, Amaya.

Day 4: History & local fare

Use this day to learn about some of the more storied locations near London. Take a day trip to Stonehenge, Bath and Windsor Castle with lunch in a 14th-century pub!

When you arrive back in town, walk along the South Bank and see Shakespeare’s Globe from the outside before you leave in the morning.

Day 5: Glasgow by train

Travel to Glasgow by train. This takes about five hours, so sit back and enjoy the beautiful countryside.

Once you get there, be sure to visit the Duke of Wellington statue (which commonly has a traffic cone placed upon his head by locals) for a fun sight.

Explore Ashton Lane for dinner and drinks.

Day 6: Scottish sites & music

Scotland's history is rich and immersive. Visit Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis to scratch the surface.

Looking for more culture? Go to the Riverside Museum or the Tall Ship — Glenlee.

Become a local by enjoying live music at a local venue like The Hug and Pint or King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut.

Day 7: Gardens & local flavor

Spend the morning in the Glasgow Botanic Gardens and be sure to walk through Kibble Palace, a glass structure, which features exotic plants and stunning architecture. The gardens are a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle and offer lovely spots for a leisurely stroll.

Explore the (free) Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum (Open 11–5. Check out the organ recital at 3 pm on Sunday)

For your last night in Glasgow, check out The Butterfly and the Pig. Located in the city center, this quirky bar and restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere with vintage decor. Enjoy a meal and then head downstairs to The Tea Rooms for live music and a great selection of drinks. They often have live performances featuring local musicians.

Day 8: Edinburgh Royal Mile

Travel to Edinburgh by train.

Check into your hotel and explore the Elephant House (where J.K. Rowling wrote part of Harry Potter).

Brush up on your Scottish knowledge at the National Museum of Scotland (open daily from 10 – 5 pm).

Walk the Royal Mile and see St Giles’ Cathedral.

Day 9: Highlands exploration

Learn about the land and culture of the upper highlands on a tour of Glencoe National Nature Reserve, Rannoch Moor, Fort Augustus Abbey, Loch Ness and Pitlochry.

Day 10: City views & departure

Hike up Arthur’s Seat for a panoramic view of the city before heading to Edinburgh Castle. Take a guided tour to hear all about its stories.

Pick a cozy restaurant like The Cellar Door, to have your last meal in town before leaving the next morning.

Advisor - Holly Griffin

Travel Advisor

Holly Griffin

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