Ciphering on the "Best of Southern England," in 2024. and - either Ireland or Scotland. I know the last two each have two versions - a "Heart of, and "A Best of." I understand the length varies. I realize this is very subjective; If time or money was not a major concern, which combo would you prefer? AS an aside I may spend a few nights in London on my own. Main interests are history, the land, photography, and culture. Not a foodie, drink little to zero. Likely travel would be in September - October. Thank you.
Posted by
Camano Island, WA, usa
1526 posts
I would pick Scotland and England. You can take the train from Edinburgh to London or vice versa. I might suggest Scotland 1st because I think that it gets cooler sooner than South England in the Fall. Just see how the schedule works for you. If you end up in Bath I would add some time in Wales. We were in Scotland in September and it started to rain in October.
Posted by
Seattle, WA, US
468 posts
I would do England and Scotland (which I did in 2009) and save Ireland for a separate trip. I had been to England previously in 2000 helping guide a school group (London, Bath, Salisbury, Stratford). England trip in 2009 was just London. Loved Scotland--totally exceeded my expectations (people, landscape, music, food) and want to go back. Ireland (Dublin and N Ireland) was wonderful, beautiful, and historic but somehow did not touch my soul like Scotland did, which surprised me.
Posted by
Atlanta
5235 posts
Agree with above advice to take England and Scotland or vice versa. In fact we did exactly that. Very short and cheap flight between the end of one tour and the start of the next. Save Ireland for another time as it deserves a trip of it's own.
Posted by
Land of La
9261 posts
Third vote for England and Scotland.
Intriguing histories, great scenery and even though you don’t drink pop into a pub or 2. They aren’t like American bars.
In fact you’ll find pub cats, dogs, rabbits, grandparents with grandchildren’s prams, mums with prams…..read up on what defines a pub.
Easy train transport between the countries.
Edit: you should overnight in Durham. Cathedral is beautiful so is the walk along the river path. Pleasant town. Loved my tea and scones at the Riverview Kitchen. No clue if still there as my Durham visit was nearly a decade ago. I was being given a private tour of the Cathedral and the place was a recommendation from the caretaker.