The Borders of Scotland & England
Overview
This self-drive itinerary will lead you on a spectacular journey through the Scottish Borders and Northumberland. While journeying through these charming regions, you can expect magnificent castles and abbeys, unspoiled coastline and an abundance of diverse wildlife and nature.
Format
Locations
- Peebles
- Glasgow
- Edinburgh
Inclusions
- Round-trip flights to Edinburgh (if Flight & Hotel package option is chosen)
- 8 nights of comfort accommodation, a combination of 3* and 4* hotels, including breakfast
- 8-day car rental in your selected category
- Third-Party Liability Insurance / Vehicle Theft Protection / VAT / Airport location fees
- Unlimited mileage for 7-day durations or longer
- Entrance to Abbotsford House
- Cruise On Lake Windermere
- Earn Aeroplan® points
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart Canada
Fly to Edinburgh.
Day 2
Edinburgh – Peebles
Upon arrival at Edinburgh Airport, you’ll collect your car and depart towards the stunning Scottish Borders. We suggest a stop at Rosslyn Chapel along the way ($). You’ll then reach your accommodation in the Peebles area.
Spend an overnight in the Peebles Area.
(Approximately 45 km)
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 3
Scottish Borders - Exploring
After breakfast, you’ll spend the day exploring the local area, famed for its production of tweeds and tartans. We suggest that you visit a local factory for a tour or stop at the partial ruins of Melrose Abbey ($). Included today is an entrance to Abbotsford House, the home of Sir Walter Scott.
Spend an overnight in the Peebles Area.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 4
Peebles – Newcastle
After breakfast, you’ll cross the border into England. We suggest that you pay a visit to Alnwick Castle, featured in the Harry Potter movie series ($). For History enthusiasts, a stop at Chesters Roman Fort & Hadrian’s Wall is a must. You’ll then continue on to the city of Newcastle.
Spend an overnight in Newcastle.
(Approximately 90 km)
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 5
Newcastle to the Lake District
After Breakfast, check out and make your way over to the beautiful Lake District. We suggest a stop in Durham, a historic university and cathedral city which is perched on the River Wear. Drive in between the scenic North Pennines and the Yorkshire Dales on your journey.
Spend an overnight in the Lake District.
(Approximately 120 km)
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 6
Lake District - Exploring
Today, you have the full day to explore this breathtaking Lake District National Park. This verdant national park has long been linked to famous writers such as Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. There are also several memorable outdoor activities to take part of. Included: A cruise on Lake Windermere.
Spend an overnight in the Lake District
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 7
Lake District – Glasgow
After Breakfast, you’ll make your way back across the border to Scotland. Make a stop at the magical town of Gretna Green, which has been made famous as a romantic eloping spot. We suggest you visit to the famous Blacksmiths shop that has helped make weddings memorable since 1754 ($). Once you reach Glasgow, spend some time exploring this fascinating city with its free museums and captivating city street art.
Spend an overnight in Glasgow.
(Approximately 180 km)
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 8
Glasgow - Edinburgh
Continue on your adventure to your last stop, Edinburgh. We suggest a visit to Stirling with its impressive Castle and former jail ($). A stop at the Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies is also recommended. Settle into your accommodation in Edinburgh before starting to explore Scotland’s capital.
Spend an overnight in Edinburgh
(Approximately 75 km)
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 9
Edinburgh - Exploring
Today, you’ll spend a whole day taking in the sights and sounds of this historic city. We suggest a visit to Edinburgh Castle, standing proud at the top of the Royal Mile ($). Why not get a taste of whisky on a tour at one of the local exhibitions or simply relax in the tranquillity of Princes Street Gardens.
Spend an overnight in Edinburgh.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 10
Return Home
After breakfast, you’ll return your car to Edinburgh Airport before boarding your return flight home.
*Due to early flights back to Canada, we recommend returning your car the day prior to avoid delays.
Meal(s): Breakfast
Accomodations
Where you'll stay
Location
Hotel
Room details
Type of bed(s): 1 double bed or 2 twin beds
Room occupancy: Maximum 2 people
Unless otherwise specified, guests will stay in a standard room at all hotels during the trip.
Important Information
-
April 1, 25 – Oct 31, 25
-
Not included
- Meals and beverages, unless noted
- GPS, Fuel, Parking fees, traffic violation tickets car upgrades, inter-city toll fees, additional insurance coverage, child car seats, luggage racks, additional rental nights, late drop off fees, cross border fees
- Damage to tires, damaged wheels, lost keys
- Gratuities
- Local city taxes (payable in Euro at destination)
- Porterage
-
Car – Self Drive
- Small Eco Manual
- Medium Compact Automatic
-
The order of the itinerary may change. The sequence and consecutive number of overnights per city could vary. Accommodations are confirmed within each county or region. The itinerary above is for reference only.
-
If applicable, payable in destination in local currency.
-
Check in: 3:00 p.m.
Check out: 12:00 p.m.