Ask for Advice on Route Planning for a 2-week Trip (have been to a few regions in UK)

Seeking Route Planning Advice for a Two-Week Family Trip in the UK

Hello everyone!

I’m looking for some advice on planning a two-week family trip to the UK at the end of May.

Last September, my parents and I explored London and Wales (specifically Eryri, Conwy, and the Pembrokeshire Coast), and we were captivated by the stunning natural landscapes. I’ve also visited Bath, York, Edinburgh, and the Scottish Highlands. This time around, we’d love to discover a new region that offers a fresh experience, while still including some of the elements we enjoyed during our previous travels.

As I’m not very familiar with other parts of the UK, I would greatly appreciate your recommendations for route planning. I’m considering Northern Ireland, but two weeks there might feel like too much?

Here are a few details about us:

Nature: We love hiking and are drawn to scenic landscapes! Spotting wildlife would be a bonus (we saw seals on our last trip). However, highly challenging trails and camping are out of our comfort zone. Our outdoor skills are about the level of the Llanberis/Snowdon Ranger Path and the Pembrokeshire Coast Paths.
Culture: We’re interested in historical sites, distinctive architecture, and museums! Locations like Westminster Cathedral and Edinburgh Castle are right up our alley.
Transport: We prefer public transport and trains over rental cars (only one of us can drive).
Budget: Approximately £1100 per person.
What to Avoid: We’d like to steer clear of pubs/drinking, shopping, overly touristy spots, and farms or villages, as we might find those repetitive based on our past experiences.

Thank you in advance for your patience and insights! While I’ve looked into tourist websites, I’m unsure which regions would offer truly unique experiences. Any recommendations would be immensely helpful!

One thought on “Ask for Advice on Route Planning for a 2-week Trip (have been to a few regions in UK)”

Sure! It sounds like you’re looking for a memorable two-week trip that balances nature, culture, and historical exploration without repeating your past experiences. Based on your interests, I’d suggest focusing on a mix of Northern Ireland and a bit of the Republic of Ireland for a diverse experience. Here’s a potential route to consider:

Week 1: Northern Ireland

Belfast (3 Days)
Transportation: Fly into Belfast. The city is well connected via public transport.
Activities:
- Visit the Titanic Museum for a mix of culture and history.
- Explore Belfast Castle and the surrounding Cave Hill Country Park for beautiful views and manageable hikes.
- Stroll around the Botanic Gardens and visit the Ulster Museum.
Giant’s Causeway & Antrim Coast (2 Days)
Transportation: Take a bus or a train to Portrush or Bushmills.
Activities:
- Spend time at the Giant’s Causeway—a unique natural formation with hiking trails nearby.
- Visit Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge for a scenic walk (the bridge is an easy path, not overly strenuous).
- Explore Dunluce Castle, overlooking the sea, for history and excellent photo opportunities.
Derry/Londonderry (2 Days)
Transportation: Head to Derry by bus or train.
Activities:
- Walk along the city walls for a historical perspective of this fascinating city.
- Visit the Museum of Free Derry for a cultural insight into the city’s history.
- Enjoy some easy hikes along the River Foyle or visit nearby Grianan of Aileach for a historical site with stunning views.

Week 2: Republic of Ireland

Donegal (3 Days)
Transportation: Take a bus to Donegal Town.
Activities:
- Hike part of the Slieve League Cliffs, which is one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe. There are varying levels of trails, so you can choose one that fits your group.
- Explore Glenveagh National Park for its beautiful landscapes and castle.
Galway (2 Days)
Transportation: Bus from Donegal to Galway (with a possible change).
Activities:
- Visit the Spanish Arch and the Galway Cathedral, soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere.
- A day trip to Connemara National Park would provide excellent hiking options and stunning views of mountains and lakes.
Cliffs of Moher and Return to Dublin (2 Days)
Transportation: Travel from Galway to the Cliffs of Moher via bus. Then head to Dublin for your return flight.
Activities:
- Enjoy the Cliffs of Moher with its spectacular coastal views and trails (there are easy paths available).
- Spend a day in Dublin visiting the National Museum of Ireland and Trinity College to see the Book of Kells.

Tips:

Public Transport: Use the train and bus services; they are extensive and can take you to most major sights. Consider getting a rail pass for the UK.
Accommodation: Look for budget-friendly hostels or B&Bs for a unique experience, or check for family-friendly hotels in the cities and towns you plan to visit.

This itinerary offers a balance of nature, culture, and history while allowing you to experience the beautiful landscapes and rich architecture of both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Enjoy your trip planning!

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