In this guide, you will come across an exciting plan and some valuable pieces of advice for a journey across the diverse landscapes of England and Scotland, touching upon distinctive experiences in Liverpool, Hogmanay, the Highlands, the Isle of Skye, and a delightful stopover at the Harbour Hotel Brighton.
The excitement of exploring new places is quite contagious, isn't it? Somehow, I felt the Universe aligning with my desire to wander through the Scottish Highlands. Suddenly, Erika's delightful pictures from her family trip there started showing up in my Instagram feed! But before venturing into the breathtaking wilderness of the Highlands, a brief rest and rejuvenation at the Harbour Hotel in Brighton can be a charming introduction to the mystique of England.
Erika and her loved ones have become valued contributors to my blog, enriching it with their wonderful travel stories like their journey through Canada and Alaska, which was brimming with insightful recommendations.
On her most recent trip, Erika not only ventured to London and Edinburgh during the festive period amidst Christmas markets, ice-skating and Hogmanay - Edinburgh's spectacular New Year's Eve celebration but also undertook an awe-inspiring journey through Liverpool and the Scottish Highlands, including the enchanting Isle of Skye. I can’t wait to follow her footsteps!
Here's an interesting anecdote: Back in 2018, our children, aged 7 and 9, decided to exchange birthday gifts for a chance to watch a European football game (purchasing birthday packages in São Paulo can pinch your wallet!).
We, the strategic planners, secured our tickets many months ahead, with an eye on attractive pricing. However, to our dismay, the schedule revealed no matches during our travel period due to FIFA dates, which are reserved for friendly internationals and weren’t a part of our plan.
Our trip hit a roadblock, and we found ourselves incurring additional costs owing to rescheduling fees, thereby decreasing our overall savings. However, this experience served as a valuable lesson! Thankfully, the rescheduled trip fell during the festive holiday season, allowing us to extend our trip and add Scotland to our travel plans.
Though I've always been drawn to the charm of Ireland, after conducting a thorough research, I discovered that Edinburgh hosts one of Europe’s grandest New Year’s Eve celebrations. This convinced us to set our sights on Scotland.
Scotland might appear small on the map, however, it hosts an array of activities, making it impossible to explore everything in just a week, especially as winter days are relatively short and one should consider the abundance of natural and outdoor attractions.
We like to keep things leisurely while traveling, without the pressure of a stringent itinerary. Therefore, we focused on places that were high on our list, which left us yearning for the spots we couldn't cover.
With that, let's embark on the journey:
Beatles statue in Liverpool
London: A Festive Christmas Getaway
Our journey began in the vibrant city of London on December 23rd, where we immersed ourselves in the holiday spirit for five delightful days.
Nestled in the charming neighborhood of South Kensington, our cozy Airbnb flat provided the perfect base for our Christmas-themed adventure.
Having previously explored the city's iconic landmarks, we crafted an itinerary that showcased London's festive side.
We eagerly explored the enchanting markets, twirled on ice skates, and meandered through the beautifully decorated streets. Of course, we couldn't resist revisiting the awe-inspiring exhibits of the Natural History Museum.
A special note to remember is that on December 25th, London pauses to celebrate Christmas. With public transport halted, we took advantage of this tranquil day to attend a heartfelt Christmas service before taking a leisurely stroll through Hyde Park. As the sun beamed brightly, albeit bitingly cold, we enjoyed feeding ducks and squirrels, immersing ourselves in the serenity of nature.
Rejuvenated by our Christmas escapades, we bid farewell to London on the 28th, setting our sights on the musical city of Liverpool for the next chapter of our adventure.
For more details on planning your own England and Scotland itinerary, including visits to Hogmanay, the Highlands, and the Isle of Skye, click here.
Image: A glimpse of the lively streets of London during the festive season.
An exhilarating ice-skating experience awaited us at the annual Christmas fair held at the Natural History Museum in London, kick-starting our trip.
Liverpool
As football enthusiasts, the day we long looked forward to was soon to arrive - a landmark football match!
We transitioned from London to Liverpool by utilizing the nation's efficient railway system, an optimal means of transportation in the United Kingdom.
The process of procuring tickets can sometimes be overwhelming, but following a guide on the Seat 61 website makes the procedure uncomplicated and offers valuable tips for the best deals on tickets. Thanks to these handy suggestions, we only paid around 1/3 of the usual fare!
Upon our arrival in Liverpool, we headed straight to the place of our accommodation.
We chose Crowne Plaza Liverpool City Centre for our stay. Apart from its great location and fair costs, the family-oriented facilities such as a heated swimming pool were a hit amongst my kids. The visit to the pool became one of the most unforgettable experiences of our stop at Liverpool.
Liverpool, surpassing our expectations, proved itself a captivating city. We were short on time, so we concentrated our exploration on The Royal Albert Dock, an energized port complex and presently a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city's central tourist attraction.
The Beatles Story, a truly immersive museum that brings to life the journey of the world-renowned band, is also located here. A must-visit for both music enthusiasts and the casually curious!
We concluded the evening with a delightful meal at one of the numerous diners at Albert Dock.
Our second day began with strolling around a shopping centre that effortlessly exuded The Beatles influence.
On our way, we also brushed past the iconic Cavern Club before savoring some time at our hotel's pool. Our final destination was the fabled Anfield Stadium.
Luck took the reins and gave us the opportunity to witness an English derby. Liverpool against Arsenal was the day's big match, with the home side stealing the show with a 5-1 scoreline, including a hat-trick from Firmino! A performance that meant the world for any hardcore football lover!
An Excursion to Edinburgh
The journey to enchanting Edinburgh commenced on the 30th of December, courtesy of the trusty UK train system.
A worthwhile tip for any train traveler in the UK is the ticketing system. Tickets come with options: fixed day/time or flexible day, the latter allowing a more open itinerary.
An advance seat reservation, which comes at no extra cost, is essential, especially if fixed travel times are known. It guarantees a comfortable journey, and ensures your travel group is seated together.
It seemed as though Europe was en route to Edinburgh on this day, resulting in an extremely congested train. Despite the crowds, we secured our seats and enjoyed a jovial atmosphere on our journey.
The allure of Edinburgh is unparalleled; it's among the most stunning cities I've had the pleasure to explore!
Dominating the skyline is the castle, a silent sentinel keeping watch over the remarkably preserved medieval city.
History is etched into its buildings, with tales of battles, royalty, and churches unfurling from every corner. For the younger visitors, the rampant Harry Potter references scattered across the city keep engagement high - J.K. Rowling famously penned her globally-adored series here, chiefly in a café aptly called The Elephant House, a must-visit location for any fans on the literary tour.
The holiday period sees the city's attractions operating almost as per usual, with slightly later opening times only coming into effect on New Year’s Day.
Our itinerary included a visit to the iconic Castle, a lovely stroll on Carlton Hill (a gem with many monuments and a breathtaking city view), and an attempt to scale Arthur's Seat for a unique perspective of the city and castle. However, due to high winds, we had to turn back before reaching the top.
Another child-enticing activity, which we regrettably missed, is the Camera Obscura & World of Illusions. The days were simply too glorious to be indoors and so we prioritized exploring the city and its abundant intriguing corners - not to forget the countless opportunities for stunning photography.
In terms of food and accommodation facilities in Edinburgh, it’s worth mentioning a few details.
The festive season sees a spike in hotel prices, so finding a central location that doesn’t break the bank requires research. After thorough research, we found the charming Grassmarket, Castle Wynd Apartment, booked through Booking which I can't recommend enough.
Food choices are abundant in Edinburgh, particularly for families. Despite some pubs' restriction on child entry, we found most locations accommodating, enjoying hearty meals, predominantly lunch as we often had dinner in the apartment.
In Edinburgh, I'd highly recommend The Royal Mile Tavern which serves delectable pub food. Adventurous or merely curious, I implore you to try a local delicacy: haggis, neeps and tatties - an experience not to be missed when in Scotland!
St Giles Cathedral in Edinburgh
beautiful Edinburgh, with Arthur's Seat in the background
Victoria Street, one of the endless photo spots
Edinburgh's Hogmanay Celebrations
Edinburgh, a city already teeming with beauty and intrigue, becomes an even more enticing destination as it gears up for Hogmanay, the Scottish term for New Year's celebrations.
December 30th to January 1st is a vibrant whirl of Christmas markets, medieval festivities, and diverse live performances. For a more comprehensive insight into Hogmanay, you may visit this link.
Aspect of the celebration we particularly enjoyed was the Torchlight Procession. This tradition involves a parade of torchbearers, accompanied by the steady beat of drums and soulful sounds of bagpipes, traversing through the old city. To provide a sense of the enormity of the event, a staggering 20,000 individuals participated in the procession while a similar number spectated the spectacle.
Braving the chill and the bustling crowd to participate was a rewarding experience indeed!
On New Year's Eve, regardless of the freezing temperatures, the streets pulse with infectious energy and anticipation. A ticketed New Year's Eve street party is the highlight of the day's celebrations.
The headliner in 2018 was Franz Ferdinand, and while this celebration strives to be a family-friendly party, we opted to sit this one out.
Coaxing our kids to embrace the midnight chill to revel in the dazzling fireworks over the castle was an endeavour in itself, let alone having them hang around on the streets for hours on end waiting for the fireworks to begin!
Should you be interested, tickets sell out fast and can be procured from the same site hosting the Hogmanay details.
The Majestic Scottish Highlands
Embarking on an exciting adventure, we commenced our journey to the awe-inspiring Scottish Highlands on the 2nd of January by car. As we drove through the picturesque landscapes, we couldn't help but marvel at the stunning natural beauty that unfolded before our eyes.
Uquhart Castle ruins
Experience Uquhart Castle's Rich History on the Shores of Loch Ness
As we embarked on our journey to the north, our first captivating destination awaited us - Uquhart Castle, nestled along the picturesque shores of Loch Ness.
With its origins dating back to the 13th century, Uquhart Castle carries a storied past that spans centuries of Scottish history. Established as a fortification long before its official construction, the castle underwent numerous expansions and alterations under various clans and even held the distinction of being a royal stronghold during the reign of Robert the Bruce.
Although now partially in ruins, visitors can still explore various sections of the castle, delving into its intriguing past. The experience is further enhanced by a captivating short film screened at the visitor centre, providing valuable insights into the castle's historical significance.
Uquhart Castle, with Loch Ness in the background
Discovering Inverness
Subsequent to our exploration of Uquhart Castle, we embarked on a journey towards Inverness. This city is regarded as the main entry point to the breath-taking Scottish Highlands and serves as an operational hub for explorers wanting to discover Loch Ness.
Enthusiasts of the Outlander series will find themselves immersed within the city's captivating aura, as it plays a significant role in the inception of the gripping narrative.
Furnishing a serene environ, Inverness boasts a rhizome of architectural wonders, including a castle that invites travelers from all over the globe. However, due to time constraints, we had to make do with a brisk saunter along the Loch Ness shoreline, which was equally exhilarating.
Our shelter for the night was the inviting, family-ran Roseneath Guest House, which earned my wholehearted endorsement.
The owner was the only staff member I encountered during our stay, proving to be an exemplary host. From ensuring a swift check-in and check-out process to serving a delightful Scottish breakfast, the owner's local recommendations and hospitality made our stay all the more memorable.
the charm of Inverness
Exploring Eilean Donan Castle and the Isle of Skye
Embarking on our journey from Inverness to the captivating Isle of Skye, we couldn't resist a stop at the awe-inspiring Eilean Donan Castle. This magnificent fortress, which has stood proudly since the 13th century, offers a glimpse into the rich history of the Mackenzie clan, known for their connection with Outlander.
Although our visit took place during the winter months, fortune smiled upon us with glorious sunny days that illuminated the spectacular landscapes of the Highlands.
While some attractions may be closed during this season, it is always wise to double-check before planning your visit. Unfortunately, the attached visitor centre at Eilean Donan Castle was off-limits during our time there. Despite our minor setback, the sheer awe-inspiring presence of the castle left us in awe.
As we continued our journey through these picturesque lands, we couldn't help but immerse ourselves in the fascinating history and breathtaking beauty that defines the Isle of Skye.
Eilean Donan Castle
The Journey through Isle of Skye
Our trip to the enchanting Isle of Skye was a much-anticipated affair, and it certainly lived up to our expectations!
One can't help but be mesmerized by the landscapes that mirror those quintessential Highlands scenes depicted in films and series. There was the serene pastureland dotted with sheep and Highland cows, juxtaposed with the dramatic coastal cliffs. The panoramas were so stunning that we found ourselves frequently pulling over to capture another picture-perfect moment!
A trip to Portree, the main hub of Skye resembling more of a quaint village than a bustling city, was mandatory on our journey.
Portree has its own unique charm. Picture-perfect is an understatement for this breathtaking hub, laced with a handful of charming guesthouses, eateries (albeit, few were closed due to the winter season), and even provisions for a supermarket.
We indulged in luxury for two nights at the splendid yet pricey Bosville Hotel.
Despite Skye's manageable size, navigating it may not be as straightforward as one might think.
This remote island comprises mostly of two-way single carriageways where vehicles from opposing directions often need to find spots to pull over to allow one another to pass. While it may seem simple, being on these roads is not without its challenges!
The ideal mode of transportation around the island is a personal vehicle given the infrequent bus services, especially during winter.
On our first day on Skye, basking in the sunshine, we seized the opportunity to visit the island's much-lauded attractions: The Old Man of Storr and Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls.
Storr, commonly known for its distinct rock formations at its peak can be observed from a distance but it is best experienced by taking a pleasant trek up to the base of these rock wonders.
Due to time constraints, we were left with no choice but to take in the sweeping vistas from squinting distance.
Kilt Rock and Mealt Falls, a dramatic cliff with a stunning waterfall cascading directly into the sea demands a visit. This natural splendour was so captivating that one could spend an entire day simply watching the view evolving as the sun's position shifts. It is a delightful nature's spectacle that, frankly, one should not miss!
We were lucky to also enjoy a hearty meal at the Antlers Bar which is conveniently located near our hotel. An unexpected last-minute cancellation secured us a spot in this warm and welcoming pub. We so loved their food and ambience that we had our dinner there for the night that followed!
The next day, we crossed the island to explore the iconic Neist Point Lighthouse. Constructed in the early 1900s, this lighthouse is perched on the Isle of Skye's westernmost point. Unfortunately, visitors are not allowed to explore the lighthouse.
The key attraction, however, are the unsurpassed views surrounding the lighthouse that captivate every visitor's heart.
Leaving the lighthouse behind, we set off for the legendary Dunvegan Castle.
Dunvegan is a historic estate that has been home to Clan MacLeod for about 800 years, making it Scotland's oldest inhabited structure. We were eager to explore the castle, however, we found it only opens to the public from April to October.
From there, our journey continued towards the mountains at Quiraing. The road wound through picturesque landscapes which coerced us to stop and admire them. Our interest piqued, we chose to traverse short distances within the region, making occasional stops for photos and to soak in the awe-inspiring vistas.
We discovered that, due to the ravages of weather, this stretch of a road was not unusual to be blocked. Gratefully, we managed to escape such inconvenience. As dusk kicked in, we retraced our journey back to Portree, marking an end to our last evening on the memorable Isle of Skye.
the Neist Point lighthouse: the westernmost point of the Isle of Skye
hairy cow: cute!
Skye landscapes
Portree, on Skye, being beautiful in the morning
The Journey Back to Edinburgh
Following the start of the new year, we embarked on our return trip to the Scottish lowlands. Although it was a considerable trek, we enjoyed several landmarks and resting points throughout the journey.
Our tour from Portree commenced just as the sun greeted the day, around 8:30 in the morning, with our destination being Fort Williams.
On route to Fort Williams, we made a detour to marvel at the historic Glenfinnan Viaduct, fondly regarded as the Harry Potter Viaduct due to the striking similarity it holds with the same featured in the movie Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
A path leads to the base of the viaduct. Alongside it, there exists a tribute (the Glenfinnan Monument). We opted for an abbreviated path and admired both landmarks from a distance.
An intriguing option is to cross the Glenfinnan Viaduct aboard the Jacobite Steam Train, yet, unfortunately, our schedule did not permit this adventure.
After this brief interlude, we continued our journey through the picturesque valleys of Glencoe. This area provides awe-inspiring scenery that cannot be easily put into words.
Famed as a haven for trekking, Glencoe offers numerous hiking trails. Despite limiting ourselves to a drive-through, the encompassing allure was undeniable. Trekking here must truly be a marvellous experience!
Our scenic route took us along the banks of Loch Lomond, placed within a national park of the same name, leading to Stirling, where we concluded the day in Scotland.
You might recognize the name William Wallace, the knight leading the Scottish forces against the English in the Scottish War of Independence, immortalized in the film Braveheart.
Legend has it that the monumental battle transpired in 1297A.D. at Stirling Bridge. The Scots unlikely but heroic victory was a turning point for Scotland's declaration of independence in 1328.
While Stirling may be a small town, it holds two significant attractions, Stirling Castle and Stirling Bridge and the Wallace Monument. These can all be explored on a one-day excursion from Edinburgh.
On this particular trip, we merely passed through, without managing to explore interiors of these intriguing attractions. Perhaps on our next visit!
We lodged at The Allan Park hotel. The following day, we indulged in a brief city tour before making our way back to Edinburgh. We savored lunch before hopping onto a train headed for London.
Stirling Bridge: this is where William Wallace led the Scots against the English army
Glenfinnan Viaduct, or Harry Potter Viaduct
The Capital, London
Upon concluding our London visit, our accommodation of choice was The Darlington Hyde Park. The hotel was simple and efficient, notwithstanding the Wi-Fi issues, advantageously sited near Paddington Station, the launch point for the Heathrow Express offering the swiftest commute to the airport.
Designated relaxation time found us making the most of Hyde Park's serene environment, our delightful squirrel companions happily partaking our almond reserves. Serving as grand ambassadors of the park, the squirrels play a vital role in creating a lively and engaging atmosphere.
As wildlife enthusiasts, we endorse the practice of carrying healthy snacks, like unsalted almonds for squirrels and bread for ducks and birds, while visiting parks. Such acts of kindness toward these animals foster an interactive experience, only bound by the extent of the treats you bring along!
As day succumbed to night on January 7th, we embarked on our voyage back to Brazil from London, with outlines of future UK expeditions already weaving their way into our minds.