When my Dad and his wife Kathy decided to travel around the UK for two months, we eagerly joined them for a 10-day road trip from Edinburgh to London. Usually, we handle all the travel planning, but this time, we just relaxed and enjoyed the ride.
This trip was full of firsts for us. It was the first time Nick and I visited Scotland, the first time we met my family abroad during their travels, and the first time Nick got to be a passenger in a rental car. I also met many distant relatives for the first time.
We arrived in Edinburgh after a six-day travel summit in Istanbul and my Dad and Kathy were there to greet us at the airport. Since we’re often on the move, we don’t see our families very often—so this reunion was special. After some much-needed hugs, we headed to our Airbnb, located just off the famous Royal Mile.
Though we only had three nights in Edinburgh, we made every moment count. The city is picturesque with its centerpiece, the 12th-century Edinburgh Castle, which has survived 26 sieges. The Royal Mile stretches from the castle to Holyrood Palace, lined with restaurants, pubs, shops, and beautiful buildings—perfect for tourists.
On our first day, we embraced all things Scottish. We ate haggis, found a kilted piper, drank ales, and listened to folk music in one of the tiniest pubs we’ve ever seen. We were smitten with Edinburgh after just one day.
While traveling, we always join free walking tours when available, and Edinburgh was no exception. These tours are a great way to learn about a city’s history and culture, and our energetic guide in Edinburgh didn’t disappoint.
On our last day, we took a train to Carluke to meet my Dad’s cousins and their families for the first time. Despite not knowing anyone, everyone welcomed us warmly. It was touching to share stories, old photos, and figure out family connections.
Our Scottish road trip took us from Edinburgh to Carluke, then Melrose, and Jedburgh before crossing into England. Melrose Abbey, where King Robert The Bruce’s heart is buried, was a particularly grand and unexpected sight.
We know we’ll return to Scotland—it’s a country full of friendly people, fun pubs, fascinating history, and beautiful architecture.
Once in England, the pace picked up with lots of walking and pub visits. The word “pub” comes from “public house,” a spot where friends and neighbors gathered. Today, it still involves friendly encounters and rounds of ales.
The real ales in the UK, brewed from traditional ingredients, were a revelation. Since returning, it’s been tough to go back to regular beers.
Our road trip continued with stops in Newcastle, Durham, York, Nottingham, Coventry, Baginton, The Cotswolds, and finally London. Each place offered highlights, like the charming Inn and restaurant in Baginton and the lively pub in York where locals shared their beers with us.
York’s sights were delightful, and The Shambles had many old pubs and hidden gems. The Cotswolds’ homes looked like something from a fairytale, and Nottingham’s caves and ancient pub “Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem” were amazing.
Having a rental car was crucial for this trip. Despite challenging driving conditions and massive roundabouts that occasionally left us circling, the car gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace.
Traveling with family can be tricky, but we all got along great on this 10-day trip. We can’t wait to join Dad and Kathy on their next adventure. We cherish these special travel memories and look forward to more.
Our digital nomad lifestyle is something we wouldn’t trade. With our parents retiring and traveling more, we get to share these experiences with them. We’ve had family visit us in Grenada and Mexico, and soon everyone will be joining us in Mexico again, promising fun times filled with tequila and tacos.
These trips offer meaningful family bonding that regular weekend visits can’t compare to, creating unforgettable travel memories. Have you traveled with your family before? How did it go? Share your experiences with us!
