England, Scotland, and Wales June 10-25-26

 Day 1–2: From NewYork/Connecticut to Edinburgh

June 10–11, 2026

Our long-awaited Scotland adventure began on June 10 as Steve and I met up with Jeff and Susie and headed to JFK Airport for our overnight flight to Edinburgh. Despite encountering some traffic along the way, we arrived with plenty of time before our 9:15 p.m. departure.

The trip started on a relaxing note in the Delta Sky Club, where we enjoyed refreshments and unwound before boarding. Soon we were settled into our seats and ready for the journey across the Atlantic. The flight was smooth and comfortable, making the overnight trip pass quickly.

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When we arrived in Edinburgh, customs was crowded but well organized, and the line moved steadily. Once we cleared customs, our Tauck driver was waiting to greet us. Our welcome to Scotland included pouring rain and temperatures in the 50s—quite a change from home!

The drive into the city offered our first glimpse of Edinburgh’s beautiful stone buildings and historic character. We arrived at the Sheraton Grand Hotel & Spa and were delighted to learn that our rooms were ready for an early check-in. After freshening up, we set out to explore.

Our first destination was Edinburgh’s famous Royal Mile. The historic street was alive with visitors, musicians, and the unmistakable sound of bagpipes echoing through the city. We wandered among the souvenir shops, soaking up the atmosphere and getting our first taste of Scottish culture.

Lunch was at Deacon’s House on the Royal Mile, a perfect stop to refuel before more sightseeing.

Later in the afternoon, we climbed aboard the Big Green Bus Tour of Edinburgh. With a live English-speaking guide sharing stories and history along the route, it was an excellent way to become acquainted with the city and identify places we wanted to explore further.

We had a great dinner at The Outsider, where the seafood was outstanding. Our table sampled hake, sea trout, and mussels—an excellent introduction to Scottish cuisine.

After dinner we strolled back toward the hotel via picturesque Victoria Street, one of Edinburgh’s most photographed streets. With its colorful storefronts and curved cobblestone layout, it’s easy to understand why many believe it inspired Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books. We enjoyed imagining young witches and wizards shopping for school supplies before beginning their journey to Hogwarts.

By the time we returned to the hotel, it was nearly 10 p.m. local time. Staying awake until evening was our strategy for defeating jet lag, and we considered the first day a success. Tired but happy, we settled in for the night, excited for the adventures that awaited us in Scotland.

Highlights of the Day

• Smooth overnight flight from JFK to Edinburgh
• First walk along the Royal Mile
• Hearing authentic Scottish bagpipes
• Bus tour of Edinburgh
• Wonderful seafood dinner at The Outsider
• Exploring Victoria Street and its Harry Potter connections

Quote of the Day
“The adventure truly began the moment we heard the bagpipes on the Royal Mile.”

Tomorrow our tour begins!