Myths, Music & Misty Moors: A Journey Through Scotland, Ireland & Northern England

From Highland castles to Irish cliffs, ancient cathedrals to bustling markets, this unforgettable journey took us through the very best of Scotland, Ireland and a slice of England - Northern Ireland. Think windswept coastlines, cozy pubs, haunting legends, and timeless charm—this wasn’t just a trip; it was a Celtic symphony.

Why Scotland & Ireland?

Scotland and Ireland are like two siblings with distinct personalities but a shared love for storytelling, music, and jaw-dropping scenery. From Edinburgh’s medieval streets to the wild Cliffs of Moher, this trip is a deep dive into Celtic culture. Expect to be enchanted by bagpipes, charmed by locals, and maybe even convinced that leprechauns are real. 

🏴 Begin in Scotland – Edinburgh’s Elegance

We started in Edinburgh—a city where history practically whispers from every stone wall and cobbled alley. We spent three unforgettable days here, soaking in its charm and character.

The day we landed, a bit jet-lagged but excited, we headed straight for the Royal Mile. This historic stretch between Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace is lined with cozy shops full of Scottish wool, tartans, and small-batch whiskies. We popped into a few local stores and admired the architecture of centuries-old churches tucked between modern storefronts.

In the evening, we found ourselves at The Bow Bar, a snug little pub known for its extensive whisky selection and local ales. A G&T or pint here, surrounded by locals and travelers, is the perfect way to feel the pulse of the city.

One of the highlights was our guided tour of Edinburgh Castle, which sits dramatically atop Castle Rock—an ancient volcanic plug that offers sweeping views of the city. Inside the castle walls, we explored the Crown Jewels, the Stone of Destiny, and St. Margaret’s Chapel, the oldest surviving building in Edinburgh.

We also visited Holyrood Palace, the official Scottish residence of the King. The palace's elegant state rooms, historic abbey ruins, and beautifully manicured gardens give a glimpse into royal life, both past and present.

Be sure to wander through the Old Town’s hidden closes and winding alleys, which feel like they were pulled straight out of a Harry Potter book (and in fact, inspired much of it). There's a bit of magic around every corner—whether it’s the sound of bagpipes echoing through the streets or stumbling upon a centuries-old pub tucked behind a narrow lane.

I was invited to Dishsoom, a popular Indian restaurant located in St. Andrew Square, inspired by the old Irani cafés of Bombay. Housed in a beautifully restored Art Deco building, it offers a warm, atmospheric setting with a wide range of traditional Bombay dishes. The interiors feature vintage photographs, rustic furniture, and period details that transport guests to another era, making it feel like stepping into 20th-century Bombay. 

Mojo Moment: Standing atop Calton Hill at sunset, with Edinburgh’s skyline glowing below, felt like stepping into a postcard.

🏛️ Stepping into Royal Footsteps – Scone Palace & St. Andrews

On our way across eastern Scotland, we made two evocative stops that shimmer with history and Scottish pride: Scone Palace and St. Andrews.

First, Scone Palace, the crowning place of Scottish kings and the original home of the Stone of Destiny—a symbol so important it was once seized by the English and hidden away for centuries. Wander through lavish state rooms lined with antique furniture and ancestral portraits, then stroll the perfectly manicured gardens or get delightfully lost in the star-shaped maze. Red squirrels flit through the trees, peacocks strut the grounds, and the air seems to hum with old-world grandeur. This is not just a palace—it’s the pulse of Scottish monarchy, still echoing through the marble halls.

When we were at Mansfield Castle, which was built for Queen Victoria to stay (due to its proximity to Balmoral), we heard some locals say that the Queen had passed away at Balmoral which was only a few miles away. The news had not yet gotten wind of it and we weren’t sure if it was true. But it was. When a monarch passes away and a new one is crowned, Regents are sent out to all of the UK's counties to announce to the populace, in this case that the Queen has died and that the new King Charles is the successor. We were so fortunate to witness this in real life.

Then we continue toward the coast to reach St. Andrews, a town of stunning contrasts and where Prince William attended the University.  The town, according to the locals, attracts many young American girls in search of a match with one of the “royals.” True or not, I don’t know, but it is a very charming little village with high end boutiques and cute cafes.

Known as the “home of golf,” this seaside gem boasts the Old Course, where legends have played since the 15th century. The famous Jubilee Course at St. Andrews Links was established in 1897 and costs a whopping £450/day to play. Even if you’re not a golfer, the wind-blown landscape and crumbling St. Andrews Cathedral ruins are worth every step.

Climb St. Rule’s Tower for sweeping views of the coastline and cathedral grounds, then take a walk along West Sands Beach, where the breeze off the North Sea whips your scarf like something out of a film (yes, Chariots of Fire was filmed here). With its university-town energy, historic streets, and dramatic coastal beauty, St. Andrews is a place where past and present don’t just coexist—they embrace.

Mojo Moment: Northpoint Cafe where William met Kate. Enroute is the Carran Restaurant bakes the best shortbread cookies daily. Even the Queen used to order them.

🏞️ Into Aviemore and the Highlands – Lochs, Legends & Towering Peaks

The Scottish Highlands, where the landscape quickly shifts into something wild and cinematic. Rolling green hills give way to dramatic peaks, wide open moors, and winding roads that seem to stretch into the sky. Glencoe was one of our first stops—a place that feels sacred and haunting all at once. The towering mountains and deep valleys here are steeped in history, including the infamous Glencoe Massacre. You can almost feel the echoes of the past in the stillness of the glen.

We pulled over just to stand in the silence, breathe the crisp air, and take in the raw, untouched beauty. No trip to the Highlands would be complete without a visit to Loch Ness. We took a boat cruise across its deep, mysterious waters—half hoping, half joking that Nessie might poke her head up through the mist. Even without a monster sighting, the cruise was peaceful and atmospheric, especially with the dramatic ruins of Urquhart Castle looming over the shoreline. The castle, perched on a promontory, has a storybook quality—windblown, partially crumbled, but proud. Walking through the ruins, it’s easy to imagine medieval life (and maybe a few ghost stories too).

Next, we headed to Aviemore, nestled in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. It’s a haven for outdoor lovers—with hiking trails that meander through pine forests and around glassy lochs that perfectly reflect the sky. We spent a bit of time just wandering and taking in the peaceful vibe of the place.

Then came a highlight of the trip: the Isle of Skye. It’s everything you dream the Scottish countryside to be—wild cliffs, tumbling waterfalls, and winding one-lane roads that lead you through magical landscapes. The Cuillin Mountains tower above, rugged and imposing, but somehow softened by the green fields below.

One of our favorite moments was hiking to the Old Man of Storr, that jagged rock formation you’ve probably seen on postcards. The trail was a bit steep, but absolutely worth it for the view at the top—Skye’s coast stretched out before us, clouds shifting quickly across the sky, casting light and shadow over the hills. It was one of those “is this real?” kind of places.

Pro Tip: Pack layers; Highland weather is as moody as a poet. Waterproof boots are a must for Skye’s muddy trails.

🎨 Glasgow – Urban Cool Meets History

We headed off to Glasgow, Scotland’s soulful second city where gritty charm awaits. It is often overshadowed by its elegant neighbor Edinburgh and has a raw charm all its own—edgy, creative, and full of surprises.

We started with a visit to Glasgow Cathedral, a stunning Gothic landmark, and wandered up to the Necropolis for peaceful views over the city. Then it was off to the West End, where quirky cafés, indie bookshops, and leafy streets invite slow exploration. We stopped for coffee, browsed a few vintage shops, and soaked up the laid-back vibe.

The Kelvingrove Art Gallery was another highlight—grand, eclectic, and full of unexpected gems. On our free day, we skipped the day trip to Loch Lomond and instead followed the city’s street art trail. The murals, especially those by local artist Smug, are jaw-dropping—massive, detailed, and perfect for photo stops.

From George Square to the hidden lanes, Glasgow is a mix of Victorian elegance and bold creativity. It’s a city that doesn’t try to impress—it just does.

Mojo Moment: Stumbling upon a live trad music session at The Ben Nevis pub—super fun and lively!

⚓ Crossing to Northern Ireland – Belfast & the Antrim Coast

No visit to Scotland or the Republic of Ireland is complete without a visit to Northern Ireland. One cannot imagine the struggles of it’s people without a stop at Londonderry/Derry. The slash is the subject of a naming dispute between Irish nationalists and unionists. Signs with “Londonderry” get painted over the London part….it’s an ongoing dispute.

We caught a ferry across the Irish Sea to Belfast, a city once shaped by conflict, now buzzing with resilience and creativity. One of our first stops was Titanic Belfast, an immersive and powerful museum that brings the ship’s story to life right where it was built—with interactive galleries, haunting visuals, and real human stories.

Joe even had a surprise in store for me at the Queens University in Belfast where he had arranged for me to sign a condolence book for the Queen.

We also took time to learn about Belfast’s troubled past, visiting the Peace Wall and hearing about the decades of religious conflict. It’s sobering, but important—and gives real context to how far the city has come.

From there, we drove north to Northern Ireland’s rugged coast, where the landscape feels straight out of a fantasy novel. At Giant’s Causeway, we walked among 40,000 hexagonal basalt columns—geological wonder or giant’s handiwork, depending on which story you believe. Just down the road, we braved the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, swaying high above crashing waves, with sweeping views of cliffs, sea stacks, and the ruins of ancient castles in the distance. Northern Ireland surprised us with its raw beauty, layered history, and deep sense of soul.

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Mojo Moment: Chatting with a local cab driver who shared his family’s story of Belfast’s past—it hit harder than any museum exhibit. If you visit, you must hire Ronan McNamara to take you on a walking tour (1:1), one of the most passionate and emotional guides who will give you a very thorough history of this very disputed land, so many lives were lost this strife between the two warring factions.

Ronan McNamara - An excellent travel guide

🎶 Explore the Wild West – Galway, Cliffs & Islands

Traveling down the Republic to Galway. I would highly recommend the route via Donegal, then stop at the gravesite of W.B. Yeats and the very charming town of Sligo. 

From Belfast, we continued to Derry, where we joined a walking tour along the city’s historic walls. Our guide brought the city’s story to life, especially its role in the Troubles—heavy at times, but deeply moving. The murals in the Bogside say more than words ever could.

Then it was on to Donegal, a region of wild beauty and deep Gaelic roots. The coastline here feels untouched, windswept and ancient. The next day, we tackled the hike up to the Slieve League Cliffs, which quietly tower over the more famous Cliffs of Moher. The path is steep, but the views—soaring cliffs and endless Atlantic—are unforgettable.

Our journey took us next to Galway, where Irish culture pulses in every pub and street corner. We wandered through cobblestone lanes filled with street performers and lively chatter, browsed shops selling handmade Claddagh rings, and soaked up the energy of the Latin Quarter. Galway feels less like a tourist stop and more like a living, breathing celebration of Irish life.

In Limerick, we explored the mighty King John’s Castle, with its medieval towers and riverside views. And of course, we couldn’t miss the Cliffs of Moher, rising more than 700 feet above the Atlantic. Despite the crowds, the sight is truly jaw-dropping.

Before wrapping up our journey, we made time for The Burren—a stark, almost lunar landscape of limestone pavements dotted with rare wildflowers and ancient tombs. It was the perfect final contrast to all the greenery: quiet, haunting, and utterly unique.

Mojo Moment: Standing at Slieve League’s edge, with waves crashing 2,000 feet below, felt like the world was holding its breath. 

🌄 Through the Southwest – Ring of Kerry, Killarney, Blarney Castle and Kilkenny

As you travel south, the Ring of Kerry offers an ever-changing view of Ireland’s most iconic beauty: misty mountains, craggy coastlines, and charming villages like Sneem and Waterville.

Explore Killarney National Park, where you can wander forest trails, visit Ross Castle, or take a ride in a traditional jaunting car through the Gap of Dunloe. The rhythm slows here—perfect for soaking in the silence between the notes.

Continue east to the legendary Blarney Castle, where tradition suggests leaning back and kissing the famous Blarney Stone for the gift of eloquence. The pilgrimage entails attending mass in the Basilica, see the apparition and touch the stone which signifies the end of the pilgrimage. We thought the panoramic view from the top was its own reward.

In Waterford, step inside the House of Waterford Crystal to watch master artisans cut glass with precision and artistry. Walk the Viking Triangle, peek into quirky museums, and savor this historic city’s quiet elegance.

Spend some time in Kilkenny, a town that feels like it leapt straight out of a fantasy novel. Visit the majestic Kilkenny Castle, stroll the Medieval Mile, and pop into boutiques, craft studios, and cafés tucked into stone alleyways. It’s easy to lose track of time here—in the best way.

Day trip to the picturesque town of Clifden, en route to Connemara National Park. Kylemore Abbey Estate is a striking lakeside abbey, set against a dramatic mountainous backdrop. Once a castle, Kylemore is steeped in history and is now home to Ireland's only community of Benedictine nuns.

Mojo Moment: Hit Tig Cóilí for live trad music. Arrive early to snag a seat! Dancing to a fiddle tune with strangers who felt like old friends by the end of the night. the pilgrimage site of Knock, where you get the best Irish school kids fav, 99-ers (a vanilla ice cream with a chocolate stick inside.) 

🇮🇪 Finish in Dublin – A City of Poets, Rebels & Pints

We ended our journey in Dublin, a city where the past and present walk side by side. It’s vibrant and modern, but everywhere you turn, there’s a trace of ancient soul.

Our first stop was Trinity College, where the Book of Kells—a stunning illuminated manuscript—sits quietly beneath soft lights, guarded by the hushed beauty of the Long Room. he real showstopper is the Long Room, a two-story barrel-vaulted hall filled with thousands of ancient books and the scent of history. With rows of dark wooden shelves and marble busts lining the walkway, it feels like you’ve stepped into a Harry Potter film or a secret literary sanctuary.

Grafton Street was alive with street performers, flower sellers, and Irish boutiques, while the winding lanes of Temple Bar echoed with live music spilling from cozy pubs. We paused at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a peaceful moment amid the bustle—its soaring arches and stained glass a reminder of the city’s spiritual roots.

Of course, we couldn’t leave without a visit to the Guinness Storehouse. The multi-story museum walk ends at the Gravity Bar, where we raised a pint high above the Dublin skyline, watching the sun dip behind the steeples.

It was the perfect end to a journey filled with sweeping landscapes, layered history, and unexpected moments of magic. Sláinte—to the road, the stories, and all the places still waiting.

Mojo Moment: Make sure you have advance reservations for the Book of Kells. Murphy’s Ice Cream is a must–traditional flavors like Irish brown bread, sea salt, and Dingle seaweed are especially popular and give you a true taste of Ireland’s distinct character. 

🌟 Final Thoughts

This journey through Scotland, Ireland, and a corner of England was a living, breathing love letter to history, music, and nature. From misty glens and medieval fortresses to bustling cities full of life and light, each stop unveils another layer of charm with a new story.

✈️ Travel Tips

• Dress for unpredictability: Weather changes on a dime. Layers and a rain jacket are your best friends.

• Footwear matters: Cobblestones, castle stairs, and scenic trails call for sturdy, comfy shoes.

• Eat local: Try the haggis, the Irish stew, the scones, and definitely the shortbread.

• Talk to people: The stories you’ll remember most often come from locals, not guidebooks.