Ultimate 5-Day Road Trip Adventure in Southern Scotland

For first-time visitors to Scotland, the ultimate starting point is typically Edinburgh, from where you may journey north into the Highlands, perhaps venturing towards St Andrews, and then possibly to the enchanting northern isles like Skye. However, Southern Scotland resides firmly in the shadow of the Scottish Highlands.

Moreover, the striking sea cliffs, picturesque countryside, and luminous starry skies for which Scotland is renowned are equally prominent in the south – offering easy access to the nation’s two major cities, Glasgow and Edinburgh. If your inclination diverges from the conventional tourist path, consider this five-day road trip itinerary that highlights the impressive offerings of this lesser-known region.

When to arrive: Arrive in Glasgow the evening before or the day your Scottish journey is intended to begin, allowing for an adjustment period to alleviate any jet lag based on your point of origin.

How to get into Glasgow from the airport: The journey from Glasgow Airport to the city center takes approximately 20-30 minutes. The Glasgow Airport Express, departing from the main terminal, is a shuttle service (£10.50 per adult) that runs directly to Buchanan St Station. Taxis are also available outside the terminal, priced between £30-40.

Getting around: Within Glasgow, it is recommended to utilize public transportation. Most significant attractions in the city center are easily accessible on foot or via bus. For traveling between the center and the West End, the Subway, recognized by its circular route and distinctive color (nicknamed “the Clockwork Orange”), is convenient. For the remainder of your trip, a rental vehicle is essential, as this is a road trip. If traveling with a group, consider exploring options with Rabbie’s, which offers customizable tour packages.

What to pack: As in the case of onions and ogres, a suitable wardrobe for Scotland necessitates layers. Essential items include sweaters, a jacket, a warm hat, and versatile footwear suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities. Additionally, pack sunglasses and sunscreen—yes, even in Scotland! Southern Scotland tends to enjoy more favorable weather, particularly during the high and shoulder seasons.

Day 1: Get to know Glasgow

Vibes: Scotland’s most vibrant, gritty, and underappreciated city.

Do: Commence your day at Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum to survey its vast collections spanning from Rembrandts to intricate Viking-era sculptures. Subsequently, enjoy a leisurely walk through the adjoining Kelvingrove Park, making your way towards the University of Glasgow—noteworthy for its Gothic architecture reminiscent of Hogwarts. After concluding lunch (refer to details below), journey east to Glasgow Cathedral while exploring the elevated Necropolis behind it, where breathtaking views of the city await you.

Eat: Experience a delightful afternoon at Mackintosh at the Willow, the sole remaining tearoom designed by Charles Rennie Mackintosh, which has been serving tea to patrons from all walks of life since 1903. Participating in a guided tour of the adjoining museum will deepen your understanding of its rich history before indulging in afternoon tea. Various other Willow tea rooms can be found throughout the city, but the original location on Sauchiehall St is an absolute must. For dinner, the modern Scottish menu at Mharsanta offers a cozy dining experience.

Stay: Given your short one-day stay, optimize your travel time by lodging in the city center. The recently opened The Address hotel, established in 2024, provides a stylish, well-situated, and >relatively affordable option.

Day 2: Go castle-hopping around Fife

Vibes: A journey back to the apex of Scottish clan history.

The drive: This day trip encompasses a loop starting and concluding in Glasgow, although it is feasible to finish the day in Edinburgh if preferred. Set out early; you will want to take your time at each stop, immersing yourself in the many tales (both literal and figurative) that each castle offers. The interval between stops ranges from 30 to 50 minutes by vehicle.

Do: Today’s expedition intertwines history with cinematic aspirations, as each stop features filming sites from popular productions such as Outlander, Outlaw King, and Monty Python. Note that you’ll be required to purchase admission tickets at each castle, typically priced between £5-10.

Your initial destination is Doune Castle, recognizable from the iconic Trojan Rabbit scene in Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Don’t miss the opportunity to utilize the audio guide – it enhances your comprehension of the castle’s rich history as you wander through the grounds. Next, travel to the charming village of Falkland, renowned for its appearance in the opening scenes of Outlander, where you can explore Falkland Castle, a former residence of the Stuart monarchs.

After enjoying lunch in Falkland (see details below), continue to Midhope Castle (a recognized location for Outlander enthusiasts). While access to the actual castle is limited due to its structural integrity, visitors may wander around the exterior. Moreover, plans are underway to establish a distillery on the property.

Your next stop is Blackness Castle, which served variously as a fortress and prison throughout its storied history (it even had a posh reputation – the panoramic views from its summit are breathtaking). Conclude your day in Culross, a former royal burgh characterized by tranquil, cobbled streets, vibrant homes topped with red-tiled roofs, and enchanting passageways. Don’t miss the opportunity to tour Culross Palace to further enrich your royal experience.

Eat: Lunch in Falkland at Campbell’s House will be a treat. Following your day of adventurous castle explorations, secure a reservation at The Gannet to indulge in a well-deserved dinner featuring fine Scottish cuisine.

Stay: Return to your accommodation in Glasgow to recharge ahead of your trip to Loch Lomond the following day.

Day 3: Frolic around Loch Lomond

Vibes: Splendid nature paired with freshwater escapades.

The drive: The trip from the city center to Loch Lomond is about a 45-minute journey; however, if you’re situated at the northern end of the lake, additional time should be accounted for.

Do: Engage in kayaking, paddleboarding, or hiking – bask in the scenic beauty of the lake! Secure a boat ride to search for lake monsters, whether on a luxury champagne cruise or by taking the ferry to Inchmurrin, which features a unique bar and inn.

Eat: Experience a delightful Italian lunch at La Vista at Cameron House while admiring the activity on the marina. For dinner, visit Clachan Inn, the oldest licensed pub in the UK, known for its hearty Scottish cuisine.

Stay: Experience luxurious lakeside lodging at Cameron House, which offers a variety of exquisite experiences including seaplane flights, lake cruises, 4×4 adventures, and more. For a mid-range option, consider Duck Bay Hotel. If you wish to fully immerse yourself in lake culture, consider camping at Sallochy Campsite.

Day 4: Explore Ayrshire and stargaze in Galloway Forest Park

Vibes: Enchanting coastal drives, lush golf courses, and tranquil, magical skies.

The drive: Navigate along the scenic coastal route (A77), stopping at Troon for a lunch break (see details below), before continuing southeast toward Dumfries and Galloway.

Do: After bidding farewell to Loch Lomond, embark on an hour’s drive to Dean Castle Country Park, which offers free entry including access to its stunning namesake castle. Take a moment to explore one of the designated trails before continuing your journey along the A77, offering one of the most picturesque views of the entire trip across the Firth of Clyde. Pause in Troon, renowned among golf enthusiasts as a regular host of the British Open (recently held in 2024).

Proceed to the coastal village of Dunure, where you can explore its clifftop medieval castle and enjoy the pebbly beach below along with the picturesque harbor. Upon savoring the seaside breezes and sunlight, make your way to Galloway Forest Park, the first Dark Sky Park in the UK, to indulge in exceptional stargazing—countless stars await! Consider booking a guided excursion with a Freelance Dark Sky Ranger, such as Elizabeth Tindal, for valuable insights on constellations and celestial phenomena.

Eat: In Dunure, relish a meal at Harbourside while enjoying the waterfront view, or opt for a splendid dining experience at Marine Troon, choosing between their restaurant options, The Rabbit or The Seal Bar (the latter offering a more relaxed atmosphere).

Stay: Given your location in a national forest, consider indulging in a glamping experience at the Dumfries & Galloway Conifer Lodges, featuring a hot tub and modern amenities for your comfort.

Day 5: Meander through the Scottish Borders and end in North Berwick

Vibes: Expansive mountains, stately residences, and a serene seaside town experience.

The drive: The journey to your destination represents the longest stretch of driving throughout this itinerary – approximately 2.5 hours via the exquisitely scenic A708 – yet the destination, Traquair House, merits the extensive travel time. Following that, it is a little over an hour’s drive to North Berwick.

Do: Traverse through the breathtaking Scottish Borders, where awe-inspiring scenery unfolds outside your vehicle window; if your intent is to see sheep, prepare for an abundant sighting. You’ll encounter grazing sheep, resting sheep, playful sheep, and climbing sheep suspended on hillsides that may prove challenging to spot – indeed, sheep abound along this area, often deemed one of the most picturesque destinations in Scotland. Should you require a break during your drive, consider a hike to the dramatic 60-foot Grey Mare’s Tail Waterfall. The entire hike spans around 3 miles, yet the initial viewpoint is a mere short walk from the parking area.

Afterward, spend time exploring the grounds of Traquair House, Scotland’s oldest continually inhabited residence, which contains artifacts associated with Mary Queen of Scots along with a Saltburn-like maze situated in the backyard. Following a delightful lunch on the premises, resume your car journey towards East Lothian in North Berwick. Make a slight detour to visit Seacliff Beach, offering stunning sunset views before concluding your day’s activities with dinner.

Eat: Delight in a traditional Scottish breakfast sandwich, served on a classic Scottish “bap” from The Riverbank, conveniently situated a few minutes away from the Conifer Lodges. At lunchtime, sample a sandwich or soup from the Old Walled Garden Café located at Traquair House, before continuing on your final driving leg. Conclude your day with a sophisticated Italian dinner at The Lawn, located within Marine North Berwick.

Stay: For your final night, enjoy a comfortable stay at Marine North Berwick, beautifully located seaside, with easy access to East Lothian’s 21 golf courses, including the smaller, charming Wee Course situated in the hotel’s immediate backyard. Rooms are thoughtfully decorated with warm, nautical themes featuring cozy velvet beds, nature-inspired wallpaper, and bedside furnishings resembling beach lockers.