Summary
For first-time visitors to Scotland, it is common to arrive in Edinburgh and travel north to the Highlands, possibly making your way to St Andrews and then visiting otherworldly northern islands such as Skye. However, Southern Scotland exists in the shadow of the Scottish Highlands.
Moreover, the dramatic sea cliffs, rolling hills, and star-filled skies for which this country is renowned are just as prominent in the south. This region also offers convenient access to Scotland’s two largest cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh. Therefore, if your compass directs you away from the common tourist paths, consider following this five-day road trip itinerary, highlighting the lesser-known treasures of the region.
When to Arrive:
Plan to arrive in Glasgow the night before your Scottish adventure officially commences, allowing yourself time to adjust to the time difference according to your point of origin.
How to Access Glasgow from the Airport:
The journey from Glasgow Airport to the city typically takes 20-30 minutes. You can board the Glasgow Airport Express at the main terminal—this shuttle costs £10.50 per adult and will take you directly to Buchanan St Station in the city center. Alternatively, taxis are readily available outside at a price range of £30-40.
Getting Around:
In Glasgow, you can depend on public transportation. If you’re situated in the city center, most significant sites are easily walkable or accessible by bus. Utilize the Subway (affectionately known as “the Clockwork Orange” due to its color and circular route) to travel between the center and the West End. For the subsequent leg of your trip, having your own transportation is essential, as this is a road trip! If you are traveling with a group, Rabbie’s offers excellent tours, including customized itineraries.
What to Pack:
Preparing for Scotland entails understanding that layered clothing is essential, akin to an onion—an appropriate outfit consists of sweaters, a jacket, a warm hat, and adaptable footwear suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities. Furthermore, do not forget sunglasses and sunscreen—this is vital even in Scotland! The south generally experiences more agreeable weather, particularly during peak and shoulder seasons.
Day 1: Familiarize Yourself with Glasgow
Atmosphere: The largest, most dynamic, and often underrated city in Scotland.
Activities: Begin your day at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum, exploring its diverse collections, which include pieces from Rembrandt to Viking-era artifacts. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely stroll around the adjacent Kelvingrove Park before making your way to the University of Glasgow—its Gothic architecture bears a striking resemblance to that of Hogwarts. After lunch (details below), proceed east to Glasgow Cathedral and explore the hilly Necropolis that lies behind it. Ascend to the top for breathtaking panoramas of the entire city.
Culinary Options: Mackintosh at the Willow stands as the last functioning tea room in Glasgow designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, serving patrons from all walks of life since 1903. Guided tours are available, offering insight into its history before indulging in traditional afternoon tea. Although several Willow tea rooms exist throughout the city, the authentic original can be found on Sauchiehall St. For dinner, consider Mharsanta, which offers a modern Scottish menu in a cozy setting.
Accommodation: To maximize your time in the city, it is advisable to stay centrally located. The Address, which opened in 2024, presents a stylish and conveniently positioned lodging option that is relatively budget-friendly.
Day 2: Castle Hopping in Fife
Atmosphere: Step back into the pinnacle of Scottish clan history.
The Drive: This day trip forms a loop starting and concluding in Glasgow, although you could conclude the day in Edinburgh if preferred. Depart early, as you will want to take your time at each site, immersing yourself in the numerous rooms and narratives—both literal and figurative—of each castle. Expect a driving time of approximately 30 to 50 minutes between stops.
Activities: Today’s ventures are not only historic but also cinematic—each site featured notably appears in popular movies and television shows such as Outlander, Outlaw King, Monty Python, and others. Be advised that tickets are required at each castle, generally priced between £5-10.
Commence at Doune Castle, whose facade may be familiar to you from a scene in Monty Python and the Holy Grail. It is advisable to opt for the audio guide, as it offers valuable insight while you explore. Following this, visit the quaint village of Falkland, which features in the opening scene of Outlander and is also home to Falkland Castle, a country estate of the Stuart monarchs.
After enjoying lunch in Falkland (further details below), continue to Midhope Castle (the structure is recognized by fans of Outlander). While entry to the interior is currently restricted due to instability, guests are welcome to explore the exterior. Additionally, excitement is building on plans to develop a distillery on the property.
Following this, head toward Blackness Castle, which served as a luxurious prison for much of its history (with extraordinary views from the top). Conclude the day in Culross, a former royal burgh showcasing tranquil cobblestone streets, colorful homes with red-tile roofs, and charming passageways for wandering. Be sure to visit Culross Palace for a tour to maintain the royal theme.
Culinary Options: For lunch, enjoy a meal at Campbell’s House in Falkland. After a busy day of explorations, consider reserving a table at The Gannet for an exquisite dining experience featuring fine Scottish cuisine.
Accommodation: Return to your lodging in Glasgow to rejuvenate before heading to Loch Lomond the following day.
Day 3: Explore Loch Lomond
Atmosphere: Stunning natural beauty and refreshing freshwater activities await.
The Drive: The journey from Glasgow’s center to Loch Lomond requires approximately 45 minutes, although additional time may be necessary if you plan to stay on the northern end of the lake.
Activities: Engage in kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, and indulge in the lake’s natural splendor! Furthermore, search for mythical lake creatures on a boat excursion—either on an elegant champagne cruise or take the ferry to Inchmurrin, which features a unique bar and inn.
Culinary Options: Savor an Italian lunch while observing the activity in the marina at La Vista at Cameron House. For dinner, visit Clachan Inn, the oldest licensed pub in the country, known for its hearty Scottish fare.
Accommodation: Experience lakeside luxury at Cameron House, where you will find a range of exciting experiences awaiting, such as seaplane rides, lake cruises, 4×4 excursions, and more. For a more affordable mid-range option, consider Duck Bay Hotel, or embrace the local culture by camping at Sallochy Campsite.
Day 4: Discover Ayrshire and Stargaze
Atmosphere: Scenic coastal drives, lush golf courses, and serene starlit skies.
The Drive: Embrace the coastal route along Ayrshire (A77) during this picturesque excursion. Stop in Troon for lunch (further details below), followed by a southeast journey to Dumfries and Galloway.
Activities: After enjoying your stay at Loch Lomond, travel an hour south to Dean Castle Country Park, which offers free entry, including access to its stunning namesake castle. Take a leisurely walk along one of the designated trails before continuing on your scenic journey along A77, where breathtaking views of the Firth of Clyde await. Stop in Troon, a beloved destination among golf enthusiasts, frequently hosting the British Open (most recently in 2024).
Continue your drive and visit the coastal village of Dunure, where you can walk to its cliffside medieval castle, stroll along the pebbly beach beneath, and admire the charming harbor. After enjoying the fresh sea air and sunshine, head to Galloway Forest Park, the UK’s first Dark Sky Park, perfect for exceptional stargazing—witness thousands of stars. For an even deeper understanding of constellations and celestial phenomena, consider booking an excursion with a Freelance Dark Sky Ranger, such as Elizabeth Tindal.
Culinary Options: In Dunure, enjoy a meal at Harbourside to experience dining by the harbor. Alternatively, dine at Marine Troon, where you can savor exquisite meals at one of the hotel’s restaurants: The Rabbit or The Seal Bar (the latter offers a more casual dining experience).
Accommodation: Given that you will be in a national forest, glamping seems a fitting choice just outside the park at the Dumfries & Galloway Conifer Lodges—featured with modern amenities, including a hot tub.
Day 5: Scottish Borders and North Berwick
Atmosphere: Rolling hills, magnificent estates, and a tranquil coastal town await exploration.
The Drive: This leg of the journey entails the longest driving stretch of the trip—approximately 2.5 hours via the exquisitely scenic A708—but the destination, Traquair House, justifies the drive. After this, expect just over an hour’s travel to North Berwick.
Activities: Traverse through the Scottish Borders, featuring remarkable sights along the way; if your intent is to see sheep, be prepared—sheep grazing, sleeping, playing, and climbing will be in abundance, earning this journey the reputation as one of the most picturesque areas in Scotland. Should you need a respite, make a stop to hike to the stunning 60-foot Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall; the full hike spans about 3 miles, but a shorter walk to the first viewpoint is easily accessible from the parking area.
Dedicate a couple of hours to exploring the grounds of Traquair House, the oldest inhabited home in Scotland. Here, you will find historical artifacts once belonging to Mary Queen of Scots, as well as a maze reminiscent of Saltburn located in the backyard. Following lunch on the property, resume your journey towards East Lothian in North Berwick. Take a brief detour to Seacliff Beach to witness the sunset before concluding your day with dinner.
Culinary Options: Start your morning with a traditional Scottish breakfast sandwich using a classic Scottish “bap” (or roll) from The Riverbank, conveniently positioned just minutes from the Conifer Lodges. For a midday meal, savor a sandwich or soup of the day at the Old Walled Garden Café at Traquair House before embarking on the last leg of your journey. To cap off the day, enjoy a delightful Italian dinner at The Lawn, located at Marine North Berwick.
Accommodation: For your final night, retreat to Marine North Berwick, perched by the sea and easily accessible to East Lothian’s 21 golf courses, including the smaller seaside Wee Course located just behind the hotel. The rooms are tastefully decorated with cozy nautical themes, featuring velvet beds, charming woodland-inspired wallpaper, and bedside tables resembling beach lockers.
