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), and my two sisters will be joining me! We’ll be flying in and out of London and are eager to make the most of our time there.
Right now, I’m considering visits to London, Edinburgh, and Glasgow, but I’d love your input on how to create the best itinerary. I intend to wrap up our trip in London, so most of our sightseeing there will be scheduled for the last few days. We’re also open to exploring additional locations if it fits our plans.
I’m thinking about renting a car in Scotland and would love to check out Glencoe. However, I’m concerned about whether the driving would be too much for our timeframe. Is it feasible to do this without feeling rushed?
In addition, I would appreciate any recommendations for:
- Must-see attractions and experiences in the UK beyond the cities I’ve mentioned
- Other noteworthy destinations to consider adding to our itinerary
- The best road trip routes in Scotland (especially if we decide to go to Glencoe or other areas)
- Any hidden gems or unique experiences we shouldn’t overlook
We’re flexible with our plans and want to embrace the adventure fully. Looking forward to hearing your suggestions—thank you in advance!
That sounds like an exciting trip! Here’s a suggested itinerary and some tips to help you make the most of your time in the UK:
Itinerary Suggestion:
Day 1-3: London
– Day 1: Arrive in London. Spend time exploring the iconic sights like Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey.
– Day 2: Visit the British Museum, stroll through Covent Garden, and take a walk along the South Bank. Consider a ride on the London Eye for a stunning view of the city.
– Day 3: Explore more of the city; perhaps visit Camden Market for a unique vibe and great food. Don’t miss an evening theater show in the West End!
Day 4-5: Edinburgh
– Day 4: Take an early train from London to Edinburgh (about 4.5 hours). Check out the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and take in the views from Arthur’s Seat.
– Day 5: Explore more of the city, perhaps visit the Palace of Holyroodhouse and stroll through the beautiful Princes Street Gardens. If possible, consider a guided ghost tour in the evening for a unique experience!
Day 6-7: Glasgow
– Day 6: Travel from Edinburgh to Glasgow (about 1 hour by train). Spend the day visiting the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, and check out the vibrant West End and its cafés and boutiques.
– Day 7: Explore further; visit the Glasgow Science Centre or take a trip to the beautiful and historic University of Glasgow.
Day 8-9: Scottish Highlands & Return to London
– Day 8: Rent a car and drive to Glencoe (about 2.5 hours from Glasgow). It’s a stunning area with breathtaking scenery. You could hike or just enjoy the views.
– In the afternoon, you could drive towards Loch Ness for a short visit and perhaps spot the famous monster! Spend the night in Inverness or return to Glasgow, depending on how much time you want to spend.
– Day 9: Return to London by train or flight, depending on your time constraints, and finish your trip with any last-minute sightseeing or shopping.
Suggestions:
In Glasgow: The Riverside Museum and the iconic Glasgow Necropolis.
Other Destinations:
York (beautiful medieval city), Bath (with its Roman baths), or the Cotswolds (for charming English villages).
Best Road Trip Routes in Scotland:
The A82 from Glasgow to Fort William is scenic and takes you through Glencoe. You can also explore the North Coast 500 if you have more time.
Hidden Gems:
Final Tips:
I hope this helps! Have a fantastic time in the UK with your sisters!