26M Traveling to the UK (Apr 26 – May 4) – Looking for Suggestions!
26M Traveling to the UK (April 26 – May 4) – Seeking Recommendations!
Hi everyone,
I’m excited to share that I’ll be heading to the UK from NYC from April 26th to May 4th (9 days), flying in and out of London. My two sisters are joining me, and we want to maximize our travel experience!
I’m currently planning to check out London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, but I’d appreciate any suggestions for creating an amazing itinerary. I intend to conclude our trip in London, so most sightseeing there will occur during our final days. We’re also open to exploring other locations if they fit into our plans.
I’m considering renting a car in Scotland and would love to visit Glencoe, but I’m a bit concerned about whether it would involve too much driving for our schedule. Is it feasible to do without feeling rushed?
In addition, I would really appreciate your recommendations on:
- Must-see attractions and experiences in the UK beyond the cities I’ve listed
- Other noteworthy destinations to consider adding to our journey
- The best driving routes in Scotland (especially if we decide to go to Glencoe or elsewhere)
- Any hidden gems or unique experiences we shouldn’t overlook
We’re flexible with our plans and just eager to have an incredible time exploring. Thanks in advance for your insights—I’m looking forward to your suggestions!
That sounds like an exciting trip! With nine days in the UK, you can definitely have a great balance between city exploration and scenic drives. Here’s a suggested itinerary and some tips to help maximize your experience:
Itinerary Suggestion
Days 1-3: London
– Must-Sees: Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, British Museum, and the iconic London Eye.
– Unique Experience: Consider a walking tour of the East End or a West End show for a theatrical experience.
– Neighborhoods to Explore: Camden Market for a vibrant atmosphere, or Notting Hill for its charming streets and shops.
Days 4-5: Edinburgh
– Fly or take a train from London to Edinburgh (trains are about 4.5 hours and quite scenic).
– Must-Sees: Edinburgh Castle, the Royal Mile, and Arthur’s Seat for stunning views.
– Hidden Gem: Visit the Dean Village—it’s a picturesque spot that feels worlds away from the bustling city.
Days 6-7: Glasgow
– Take a short train ride (~1 hour) from Edinburgh to Glasgow.
– Must-Sees: Kelvingrove Art Gallery, the Glasgow Science Centre, and the vibrant Merchant City.
– Unique Experience: Check out the street art scene—it’s one of the best in the UK!
Days 8-9: Road Trip to Glencoe
– Car Rental: Renting a car is a great idea for seeing the Highlands! If you leave early, Glencoe is about a 2.5-hour drive from Glasgow, allowing you to enjoy the scenery.
– Road Trip Route: Drive through Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park—consider stopping at picturesque villages like Luss or Balloch before heading to Glencoe.
– Spend the day there, explore trails, and enjoy the stunning landscapes. If time permits, you could also take a scenic drive to Fort William or visit the nearby Isle of Skye (though that might be pushing it).
Additional Suggestions
Make sure to check transportation schedules and book tickets in advance, especially for popular attractions as they can sell out quickly. Enjoy your trip, and make lots of great memories with your sisters!