What do to in Scotland (and how cold will it be!?!?!?)
 

I will be travling to the UK on Saturday. Since this is my 3rd trip there, I thought I would branch out and visit Scotland. One problem, I HAVE NO CLUE!

What should I do there (as opposed to England)? What should I see? Is it less expensive or more expensive than London (I'll be in Edinburgh)? Should I try to see Glasgow too? How close is the Hilton Grosvenor to the train station? Is it a decent Hotel? Will it be freezing cold? Should I take a walking tour? A tour bus?
What have I missed?

I appreciate any and all answers, thanks!!!

Mac

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Via con Dios!

Do you like Scotch! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

Drink lots of it! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

Edinburgh has its famous castle, and from the castle to the palace of holyrood is an excellent walk, It's called the royal mile.

To me, the nicest thing to see inn scotland is the castles.

With the pubs running a close second, of course!! I returned from Scotland, including Edinburgh, a few weeks ago and would see the castle, but if it's cold or raining, I would also recommend the Scottish National Portrait Gallery if you're into that kind of thing. We really enjoyed a few hours we spent there. There are a lot of places on the Royal Mile to duck into (museums, displays, cathedrals, etc.) if you need to warm up or dry off. We loved the stained glass at St. Giles. Then, take a train somewhere, anywhere, and just get out and walk around. There may be a cathedral or castle nearby and definitely warm, cozy pubs and friendly people. Have a blast!

EPS recommends The Museum of Childhood in Edinburgh. [Free!]

Try Loch Ness and Isle Of Skye .. easy drive from Edinburgh or Glasgow which and only an hour apart on the freeway. Lots of 2 day tour type things available from either major city pre-bookable on the web. Went there in June. Great fun! Lots of superb old castles and things en-route, and the countryside and people and just wonderful diversion from mad London. http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

www.GlenStephens.com/london2000.html

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~ Glen ~




[This message has been edited by ozstamps (edited 10-03-2000).]

Macbravery,
Scotland is my favorite place - I've visited there 10 -12 times.

In Edinburgh, I would recommend a walking tour (I'm particulary fond of Robin's tours). I would make sure that you visit the Palace at Holyrood and take a guided tour of Edinburgh Castle. Near the castle on the Royal Mile is Edinburgh's Camera Obscura - also an interesting stop.

Jenners on Princess St is a great, traditional department store - a fun place to spend a few minutes to a few hours.

Glasgow is a short train ride away - I beleive the trains run every 30 minutes.

Edinburgh is great - but if you have the time venture a little further. By car, train, or bus, many parts of Scotland are easily accessible - the Isle of Skye, Isle of Mull, a visit to the Highlands, a stop at at least one of the distilleries.

I'll be in Scotland for the second half of October - and chomping at the bit to leave already.

Larry

By the way, the weather in Edinburgh is in the mid 50's this week.

October is my favorite time in Scotland - a little cool, less tourists, sunny if it's not raining and if it is raining, it will usually stop after you've had a long enough pub stop!

I would say skip Glasgow.
In addition to the other great suggestions here, you can head either to St. Andrews or into the Highlands. Make sure you have a heavy rain-proofed windbreaker!

Actually, the best reason to go to Glasgow is the Burrell Collection - one of the most fascinating galleries I've ever seen.

I had a great couple of hours in Glasgow touring the Glasgow School of Art designed by Charles Rennie Macintosh, of whom I'm a big fan.

As for Edingburgh, if you're into fine single malts, do not miss Royal Mile Whiskey. Plenty of wee drams for sampling and great prices on one-of-a-kind, private label bottlings as well as all the greats. Also, have a nice hike up to Arthur's Seat in Holyrood Park for an awesome view of the city.

Have a great time.

[This message has been edited by essxjay (edited 10-03-2000).]