Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
PLANNING
YOUR TRIP TO
EDINBURGH &
GLASGOW
Edinburgh and Glasgow, separated by less than 74km
3
(46 miles), are, of course, the primary cities of Scot-
land, as well as significant metropolises in the United
Kingdom. Each has an increasingly busy international air-
port and a city center railway terminal that regularly
receives trains from London and other cities in England,
and from elsewhere in Scotland.
Although Scotland likes to think of itself as a separate country, the cen-
tral United Kingdom government in London regulates all issues regarding
international visitors and immigrants, and the same rules apply to travel
to Scotland as to traveling in any part of England, Wales, and Northern
Ireland.
This chapter is devoted to the when, where, and how of your trip—as
well as the advanced planning required to get your traveling act together
and take it, literally, on the road.
For additional help in planning your trip and for more on-the-ground
resources in Edinburgh and Glasgow, please turn to the “Fast Facts” on
p. 263.
WHEN TO GO
Weather
The Lowlands of Scotland usually have a moderate year-round tempera-
ture. In spring, the average is around 53°F (12°C), rising to about 65°F
(18°C) in summer. By the time the crisp fall has arrived, the tempera-
tures have dropped to spring levels. In winter, the average temperature is
43°F (6°C), but can be colder and sub-freezing days are not unheard of,
but not the norm, either. Temperatures of northern Scotland and the
Highlands are generally lower, especially in winter, and you should dress
