Episode 118 – Exploring Scotland’s North Coast with Victoria Greig: Highlights and Tips

In episode 118 of the UK Travel Planning Podcast, host Tracy Collins chats with her first New Zealand guest, Victoria Greig. Victoria and her husband, Murray, who embarked on an epic 7.5-week journey across the UK earlier this year.

In this episode, Victoria shares the highlights of their adventure, including an unforgettable tour with North Coast Explorer Tours, time spent exploring the picturesque Cotswolds, and the historic city of York.

From breathtaking scenery and unique activities to invaluable travel tips, join us as we delve into what made their trip so special and why a bespoke tour with knowledgeable guides like Robert James at North Coast Explorer Tours can transform your travel experience.

Tune in for captivating insights and inspiration for your next UK vacation!

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Episode 118 – Show Notes

❇️ Key topics and bullets

Intro

1. Introduction to the Podcast

– Host and founder: Tracy Collins

– Content overview: destination guides, travel tips, itinerary ideas, and interviews

Trip Overview with Victoria Greig

1. Victoria Greig’s Background

– Residence: Christchurch, New Zealand

– Travel companions: Husband, Murray

– Initial trip postponement due to COVID-19

2. Duration and Scope of the UK Trip

– Total duration: 7.5 weeks in the UK

– Itinerary highlights:

– Aberdeen, Shetland

– Inverness and North Coast Explorer Tour

– Fort William (Jacobite Express), Glasgow, Outer Hebrides (Self-drive)

– Edinburgh, York, Cotswolds, London

3. Focus on Slow Travel

– Extended stays in specific locations (York, Cotswolds)

North Coast Explorer Tour

1. Introduction to North Coast Explorer Tours

– Special focus: North Coast 500 and North Highlands

– Meeting Robert from North Coast Explorer Tours

2. Discovery and Booking of the Tour

– Initial advertisement in Scots Magazine

– Practical benefits and decision-making

– Listening to related podcasts

3. Tour Experience

– Duration: 6 days

– Personal and flexible itinerary

– Highlights:

– Gardens (Lochmellm Shrubbery, Inverewe Gardens, etc.)

– Castles (Castle May, Dunrobin Castle, etc.)

– Historical context and storytelling by Robert

– Drone experiences

– Unique stops and secret places

4. Accommodation and Dining

– Customized accommodation arrangements

– Pre-booked dining spots

5. Unique Aspects of the Tour

– Use of a drone for unique perspectives

– Specific highlights and experiences (Glenloth, Sinclair Girnigoe Castle, cliffs and beaches, etc.)

Comparison with Other Tours

1. Robert’s Knowledge and Expertise

– Past touring experiences

– Advantages of a bespoke private tour

– Robert’s continuous education and knowledge sharing

Wildlife and Other Observations

1. Wildlife Sightings

– Red deer, puffins, and Highland cows

2. Tips for Future Travelers

– Research and planning

– Use of local expert knowledge for hidden gems

Victoria’s Experience in York

1. York Highlights

– York Minster

– The Shambles

– Museum Gardens

– The city walls

Day Trips from York

– Exploring the Yorkshire Dales

Final Tips and Reflections

1. Advice for First-Time UK Visitors

– Importance of research

– Use of maps and understanding distances

– The benefits of train travel in the UK

Conclusion

1. Conclusion by Tracy Collins

– Accessible show notes

– Invitation for feedback and reviews

Click here to download a PDF Transcript of Episode 118

Useful resources

• Listen to our podcast episodes with Sally-Ann of North Coast Explorer Tours
  • Episode 35 – An introduction to Far North Scotland with Sally-Ann of North Coast Explorer Tours
  • Episode 36 – Exploring Far North Scotland with North Coast Explorer Tours
  • Episode 42 – Discovering the treasures of Far North Scotland with North Coast Explorer Tours

• Scotland road trip itinerary (Episode #30)