Best Things to do on a Road Trip from City of Edinburgh, Scotland and Maidenhead, England
Are you ready for an epic journey from the City of Edinburgh, Scotland to Maidenhead, England? This road trip will take you on a ride of a lifetime, filled with magnificent sceneries, historical landmarks, and exciting experiences. The 408-kilometer drive takes approximately five hours and 25 minutes. Doncaster, XSY is the halfway point where you can stretch your legs and enjoy some food before embarking on the second half of the journey.
Best Things to do on a Road Trip:
1. Explore The Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh
Step into the Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh, and immerse yourself in nature. With over 13,000 plant species, it is a green paradise worth visiting. The garden boasts of a Victorian Palm House, 10 magnificent glasshouses, and a Chinese Hillside, where you can marvel at exotic plants, rare trees, and flowers. Take a relaxing stroll through the garden or join the guided tours, which are available for free.
Fun Fact: The Royal Botanic Garden, Edinburgh, has the world's largest collection of wild-origin Chinese plants.
2. Visit Alnwick Castle and Gardens
Alnwick Castle and Gardens are a must-visit location on your road trip. This historic castle has a rich history dating back to the 11th century. It has been used as a location for several popular movies and TV series, including "Harry Potter" and "Downtown Abbey." Explore the castle's state rooms and the notorious dungeons that housed prisoners during the medieval times. Afterward, take a stroll through the beautiful gardens, which features a variety of stunning plant species, a water cascade, and a poison garden.
Fun Fact: Alnwick Castle and Gardens are one of the most popular locations for school trips in the UK.
3. Discover Fun at The Angel of the North
One of the most recognizable landmarks in the UK is the Angel of the North, located in Gateshead. This ten-ton sculpture made of steel is 20 meters tall and has a wing span of 54 meters. The statue is monumental and stands on a hilltop overlooking the surrounding area. Take a stop and pose for a picture with the Angel of the North, and admire its beauty.
Fun Fact: The Angel of the North was designed by the sculptor, Antony Gormley.
4. Experience The Magnificent York Minster
York Minster is a stunning Gothic cathedral located in York City. The Minster has a rich history, dating back to 637 AD when it was first built. Visitors can admire the cathedral's stained-glass windows, which are some of the most remarkable in the world. They depict biblical figures and stories that date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Visitors can also climb the Central Tower and get a panoramic view of the city.
Fun Fact: The York Minster has the largest expanse of medieval stained glass in the world.
5. Dreamworlds at Cliveden House
Relax at Cliveden House, located in Taplow, England, and indulge in the history of this beautiful estate. This magnificent house has housed royalty, politicians, and celebrities since the 1600s. Visitors can take a tour of the majestic house and its beautiful gardens, which have been carefully cultivated. Cliveden House's history is vast and has been the setting for many illicit affairs, scandals, and political deals.
Fun Fact: Cliveden House inspired the infamous Profumo Affair, a political scandal in 1963 that eventually led to the resignation of then- UK Secretary of State for War, John Profumo.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the road trip from the City of Edinburgh, Scotland, to Maidenhead, England, is an experience you do not want to miss. With the five must-visit locations, you will have a memorable trip filled with unique experiences. You will see stunning natural landscapes, learn about history, and make memories that will last forever. This road trip is perfect for a weekend or a summer getaway, and the 408-kilometer drive takes approximately five hours and 25 minutes. So start packing and hit the road, and be ready for an unforgettable experience.