9 Trips, 4 Nations, 1 Kingdom: Which UK Adventure Fits You?

Few places pack as much charm, history and natural beauty into such a small area as the British Isles. From misty mountains to charming seaside villages, the United Kingdom is bursting with landscapes straight out of a storybook (looking at you, Outlander). But with so much packed into such a small place, it’s easy to miss what makes each region truly distinct. That’s where a real local comes in handy. Lucky for us, we’ve got UK Regional Expert Keith Emslie to help us unravel this rich tapestry of cultures.

The 9 trips we run in the UK 

(not counting variations for Traveler Types, like Family or Women’s Adventures):

1. Scotland to England Biking: Castles, cycling, estates, vibrant scenery, two countries in one. Also available as a family trip with shared hotels.
2. Cotswolds Walking & Hiking: Cobblestones, cottages, castles, timeless charm, the inspiration for the Shire.
3. Cornwall Walking & Hiking: Beaches, coasts, legends, seaside escape, Cornish pasties!
4. Wales Walking & Hiking: Castles, cliffs, Celtic, endless green, truly off the beaten path.
5. Scottish Highlands Walking & Hiking: Peaks, history, wilderness, elegant stays, rugged beauty.
6. Inverness to Isle of Skye Walking & Hiking: Glens, lochs, mountains, cozy retreats, magical landscapes.
7. Scotland Highlands Biking: Highlands, bagpipes, whisky, tranquility, quiet riding, beautiful landscapes.
8. Scotland West Coast & Isle of Skye Walking & Hiking: Hidden gem, fewer busy trails, distillery stay, hunting lodge hotels, wildlife boat tour.
9. Dublin to Belfast Walking & Hiking: Dublin start, Northern Ireland (UK) focus, coastal hikes, castles, and Irish charm.

Keith's Insights

1. Ok first things first, can you explain the relationship between England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland?
Keith: Each country has its own distinct culture, dialects, languages and traditions, all proudly protected. People identify as Scottish, Welsh, or English before saying British—it’s similar to how Texans might say Texas before American. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland each have their own parliaments but share Westminster for larger decisions like defense and taxation. Friendly rivalries in sports have replaced past contentions.

2. How does the cultural experience differ across these trips?
Keith: The activities on each trip perfectly align with the region’s character. In Cornwall, hike along the beach before enjoying fish and chips by the seaside. In Wales, sing sea shanties with a local musician and a pint of local beer. Ride through Scotland’s countryside to visit a castle featured in Outlander and meet a local bagpipe maker. On Cotswolds trips, enjoy mid-hike afternoon tea, or in Wales, be treated to a men's choir performance.

3. Is there a meal or drink from these trips that stands out?
Keith: Cornish pasties in Cornwall, haggis in Scotland, scones in England and Welsh cakes in Wales—each one adds its own flavor to the experience.

4. How do the accommodations on these trips compare? Any that stand out?
Keith: Many hotels on these trips are unique—converted country homes, hunting lodges, or even historic estates with creaking floorboards and open fires. The Torridon in the Scottish Highlands is a guest favorite. Built as a hunting lodge in 1887, it offers a stunning mountain backdrop and echoes Queen Victoria’s love for the region.

5. What’s the best season to explore these destinations?
Keith: Scotland in August is breathtaking when the hillsides turn purple with blooming heather, and Edinburgh comes alive with the Fringe Festival. For the UK overall, June offers the longest days and the best weather—northern Scotland even gets near-constant daylight.

6. What advice do you have for travelers trying to decide between these trips?
Keith: For slower pace and countryside charm, go for the Cotswolds. For adventurous, remote hiking with rugged landscapes, choose West Coast & Isle of Skye. Want to avoid crowds and discover surprising beauty? Wales is the one.

7. Any memorable moments from leading or designing these trips?
Keith: One highlight was finding Fin Moore’s bagpipe workshop in Dunkeld. He now features on our Scotland trips, sharing his passion and craftsmanship with guests. It’s the unexpected encounters that make these trips special.

8. Do we have any trips that go into Northern Ireland?
Keith: Yes! Our new Dublin to Belfast trip is incredible. It’s an amazing itinerary and no other companies are offering anything like it.