Happy travels!

* All images courtesy of Airbnb
** All prices in $CAD

FRANCE – Eiffel Tower Airbnb

• Airbnb in Paris, France
• $150 per night

Imagine waking up to this view every morning! Of course, such a privilege comes at a premium; with rates going as high as $650 per night, not just anyone can afford to marvel at the Paris skyline while sipping on their morning café au lait. But it sure is an unforgettable experience!

Iceland – Luxury villa

• Luxury villa in Iceland
• $650 per night

Experience this ultra-modern, bold villas in the tranquil village of Akureyri in Northern Iceland, with nature at your doorstep. This is an excellent option year round, as you can both enjoy the midnight sun in the summertime as well as the aurora borealis in the wintertime – as you know, Iceland is always a good idea.

Ireland – Restored church in Galway

• Church in Ireland
• $150 per night

Experience life in a 200-year old restored church just a few minutes from lively Galway, on the scenic western coast of Ireland. Although the church is equipped with every modern amenity, it’s also kept many of its original features – definitely an unforgettable, unique adventure!

Cinque Terre, Italy

• Airbnb in Cinque Terre
• $128 per night

Quite possibly the best balcony in Italy! The apartment is small but frankly this is not the main selling point here, as the romantic terrace overlooks the village of Corniglia in Italy’s legendary Cinque Terre.

Norway – Sognefjord Airbnb

• Cabin in the Norway fjords
• $350 per night

This old thing? Just a fabulous cabin by one of Norway’s most famous fjords. Perfect for hikers and boat enthusiasts – as for me, I will just enjoy a chilled glass of white wine on that lovely waterfront terrace, thank you very much.

Scotland

• Waterside cabin on the Isle of Skye
• $118 per night

A luxury self-catering studio for two on the edge of a bird sanctuary with stunning views of Beinn na Caillich mountain, this bijou Airbnb is close to many Skye attractions as well as a number of shops. The power shower, the cosy fireplace as well as the downright idyllic setting make it a top accommodation of the Isle of Skye. I stayed there myself and had a wonderful time; Fiona is a lovely host.

Scotland – Wigtown Bookstore Airbnb

• The best Airbnb in Scotland
• $55 per night

Bookworms of the world, rejoice: this amazing Airbnb features not only a flat but most importantly the first ever bookshop holiday/residency experience at The Open Book, a charming bookshop in the heart of Scotland’s National Book Town, Wigtown. Meet fellow book lovers and learn everything there is to know about Scottish literature with the help of friendly locals.

Switzerland – Après-ski cabin

• Luxury chalet in the Alps
• $191 per night

Whether you’re in it for the ski or the après-ski, this beautiful luxury chalet in the French Alps (just a few kilometres from a ski resort) features an unusually high cathedral ceiling as well as a wood-burning fireplace – the perfect backdrop for a well-deserved cheese fondue. When in Rome, right?

• https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/49372736
• https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/283638
• https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/49374597
• https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/34444025
• https://www.airbnb.co.uk/rooms/18132082
• https://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/36105750

The post The Best Airbnbs in Every Country in Europe appeared first on To Europe And Beyond.

I would mindlessly pull an all-nighter, unable to put the book down until I got to the very last page, once again wholly infatuated with the wizarding world and its subtleties, once again grateful and deeply content for this almost sacred experience.

So it doesn’t come as a surprise that I actively sought out Harry Potter locations in the UK during my trips there. From the Harry Potter film studios in London to the colleges in Oxford, I have seen a lot of places where the franchise was either set in the books or was actually filmed. Regardless, Glenfinnan Viaduct is arguably the most famous Harry Potter filming location you can visit in Scotland.

I spent hours on end doing research on what is now known as the Harry Potter bridge and because I’m happy to share the knowledge with fellow Potterheads, here’s everything I know about riding the iconic Hogwarts Express train in Scotland.

Where to find the Hogwarts Express in Scotland

Glenfinnan Viaduct can be seen multiple times throughout the franchise, but the most notorious scene is when Harry and Ron almost crash the flying Ford Anglia into in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets movie.

The hike from the train station to the viewing point takes about an hour there and back; it’s very well-marked and you absolutely cannot get lost. The hike is uphill for the second half but it was nothing that even I couldn’t manage.

There are a few places from which you can admire the train; the most popular is the small plateau right before the trail heads downhill towards the viaduct itself.

Another option, if you have waterproof hiking shoes, is to walk down towards the river, cross the small wooden bridge, take a left and hike up the mountain on the right-hand side; weather permitting, you’ll be rewarded with shots like these. I initially planned on doing that but didn’t have the proper footwear and the ground was muddy.

Glenfinnan and the Jacobite Train views

What we call the Hogwarts Express is actually the Jacobite Train, which runs the 84-mile stretch separating Fort William from Mallaig on the West Highland Railway Line.

In fact, the journey were a thing long before the films were released. For over 50 years or so, the experience has been marketed as “one of the greatest rail journeys in Britain” and rightfully so if I do say so myself. Indeed the scenery, aside from the Harry Potter-related bits of course, is absolutely stunning.

The list of superlatives is quite impressive. Not only does the train departs near Britain’s highest summit, Ben Nevis, it rides by Britain’s deepest freshwater lake, Loch Morar and arrives at Europe’s deepest seawater lake, Loch Nevis! Train nerds will also appreciate alighting (by request to the guard) at Britain’s most westerly mainland railway station, Arisaig, incidentally where the famed Highland Games takes place each July.

On sunny days passengers can see as far as the Small Isles of Rum, Eigg, Muck, Canna and even the southern tip of Skye.

Hogwarts Express travel tips

2025 Harry Potter train fares

Tickets cost £69 for a standard adult and £105 for first class. Note that there are no one-way tickets. The Hogwarts Express is solely a return journey!

Also note that single passengers must travel in standard class.

2025 Harry Potter train schedule

For the 2025 season, the morning service will run seven days a week between Monday 7th April and Friday 24th October departing Fort William at 10:15 am sharp and arriving in Mallaig at 12:26.

There is an additional afternoon service seven days per week during core summer season between Monday 5th May and Friday 26th September that departs Fort William at 12:50 and arrives in Mallaig at 15:06.

Overall, the train passes over Glenfinnan Viaduct four times daily: two times facing west at precisely 10:45 and 1:20, and facing east at 3:30 and 6:20. Outside of the afternoon service schedule in May and October, the train only passes twice daily, at 10:45 and 3:30.

My schedule was a bit extreme, but I have no doubt true Harry Potter fans will agree that it was very much worth it. I got the early regular ScotRail service from Fort William to Glenfinnan, which left me with ample time to complete the hike, set up my equipment, record the train passing over the viaduct at 10:45, cry a little bit, hike down to and visit the Jacobite monument and get back to the train station to grab a bite in the dining car just in time for the next train to Mallaig.

It was a long day, but I regret nothing as I got the two iconic shots I needed.

Harry Potter train photography tips

Should you want proper footage of the train passing over the viaduct from inside the train, you’ll have to get a spot by the opening window at the very back of the carriage. Either on the left-hand side if you’re westbound or on the right-hand side if you’re eastbound.

Most importantly, be prepared to elbow a few people in order to keep it. Most passengers will spend the entire journey comfortably seated in the carriage. They will frantically get up once they realise we are getting closer to the iconic viaduct. Because I needed to get the shots for this article, I stood up at the back of the carriage for the better part of two-hour ride to ensure premium visibility near the open window.

VIDEO: Riding the Harry Potter train in Scotland

The post Riding the Harry Potter Train in Scotland is just as epic as it sounds appeared first on To Europe And Beyond.

Firstly, it’s super atmospheric with creaky floors, wood beams (that are thought to come from old sailing ships!) and stone walls. Secondly, it’s one of the few remaining free houses owned by an independent family business in all of the United Kingdom. Thirdly, it’s just an amazing place to get to know locals and have a good rare welshbit!

How old is the Black Boy Inn?

It’s widely believed that the Black Boy Inn is one of the oldest surviving inns in North Wales with indications that it dates back to 1522.

Caernarfon was a major port-town back then. It’s ideally positioned on the mouth of Menai Strait, defending it from the exposed open water of the Irish Sea. It was also used as a navy base to access the North and West Coasts of Wales, as well as the Anglesey passage.

Needless to say that sailors enjoyed the particularly warm welcome in Caernarfon. The street on which the Black Boy Inn still stands today was called Northgate Street in English. The Welsh version, however, tells a different story; Stryd Pedwar a Chwech essentially translates to “4 and 6 street”. As such, the Black Boy Inn was at the core of the village’s red light district so to speak. Legend has it that for the exact sum of 4 shillings and 6 pence, sailors would get a room, a bottle of gin and a lovely girl to spend the night with.

Today, the pub is a listed Grade II building. That can be explained by the fact that it still retains some original interior details from the 17th century.

Why is it called Black Boy Inn?

There are many theories to explain the name of this historic pub. Mind you, some more frivolous than others, and two that seem a bit more believable.

The first one says that the relates to a navigational buoy that stood in the harbour in the 17th century. The second one refers to King Charles II; his mother coined the nickname “Black Boy” because of the darkness of his skin and eyes. Some records show that the Welsh pub was a secret meeting location for Royalists at the time.

Is the Black Boy Inn a hotel?

Thinking of staying in Caernarfon a bit longer than just a day? You can indeed spend the night at one of the loveliest pubs in Wales. The building consists of two distinct floors: downstairs is the pub and upstairs is a series of 47 guestrooms spread across four buildings.

For the rooms with the most character (think sloping ceilings and original beams), make sure to book in the Black Boy Inn building. There are other cute rooms in other sections, especially if you’re after a medieval-looking four-poster bed! The Black Boy Inn as well as Black Jack’s buildings both have such beds.

The post Black Boy Inn, one of the prettiest pubs in Wales appeared first on To Europe And Beyond.

If you can put the moody weather aside for a minute —ask a Scot, any Scot, how the sun is commonly referred to north of the border— there is little doubt in my mind that Scotland will delight and seduce you.

From scotch distilleries to historic castles, from scenic waterways to Harry Potter filming locations, here’s what you can’t miss on a first trip to Scotland.

Fàilte gu Alba!

Edinburgh

It might technically be Scotland’s second city in terms of population but Edinburgh is nonetheless the country’s top tourist attraction. Rightfully so! With a pretty much intact medieval castle and a vast network of supposedly haunted passageways as well as world-famous festivals and inner-city hiking possibilities, clearly Edinburgh is a wildly atmospheric city that has to be seen once in a lifetime.

Or four times, if you’re me.

Glasgow

The unconventional, eccentric city that is Glasgow has gone through a bit of a Renaissance since the early 2000s and recently blossomed from dodgy and crime-ridden to characterful and lively. There are tonnes of things to do here, from naval history museums to art galleries and cutting-edge architecture.

I cannot possibly stress this enough: do not simply stop in Glasgow on your way to somewhere else. Stay a while. Give it the credit it fairly deserves.

Stirling Castle

Located about an hour outside Edinburgh, this mystical stronghold is one of the most significant throughout Scotland for its brilliant layout and its agitated history.

Firstly, several Kings and Queens crownings occured at Stirling Castle over the centuries including the ruthless Mary Queen of Scots in 1542. Secondly, the castle played a major role in the tragic Wars of Scottish Independence and sustained at least eight different sieges in the space of 60 years. And thirdly, the English and Scottish armies bloodily and successively swapped upper hands until Robert II of Scotland King of Scots once and for all retook Stirling in the 1341 siege.

In conclusion, this is perhaps the most quintessential of all Scottish castle. It’s made out of heavy stones on a rocky three-sided promontory overlooking the River Forth. Additionally, it features massive outer defences as well as several imposing 15th-century pavilions and a massive close.

Glencoe

Perhaps the most spectacular panorama in not just Scotland but all of Britain! Here, River Coe crosses the narrow Glen Coe valley traversed surrounded by precipitous, snowcapped mountains formed by an ice age glacier.

These landscapes are home to some of the finest hiking opportunities Scotland has to offer. Notably the Three Sisters, a series of steeply-sided ridges that extend north into the Bidean nam Bian Glen.

Paradoxically, as with many other stunning parts of Scotland, Glen Coe is also home to the most macabre of tragedies. On a ghastly day of 1689, 38 members of the local MacDonald clan died by gruesome assassination. The rival Campbell clan used subterfuges to trick higher authorities into believing that the Highlanders were, essentially, a bunch of thieves and only begrudgingly pledged allegiance to the new King of England, William of Orange.

Culloden

Located just a few minutes outside Inverness, Culloden Moor was the site of the final battle of the Jacobite uprising. Over 2000 gallant Highlanders —men, women, and children— lost their lives to the English, and Bonnie Prince Charlie valiantly fought Prince William Augustus. It was a decisive moment of Scottish history; within an hour, it was over, and few Scots survived. Hell, not even Scottish culture survived.

A cultural genocide to some, a drastic assimilation to others. Regardless of semantics, it is nothing short of bone-chilling to stand on the very site of a mass killing, a site where people came to willfully, yet vainly fight for their identities.

Fort Augustus

Nestled in the southernmost tip of the emblematic Loch Ness and equally important on any Scotland itinerary, Fort Augustus is a teeny tiny little hamlet built around the Caledonian Canal with enticing waterside pubs and unmatched views of the famed loch.

While there might seem to be little in the way of attractions, Fort Augustus makes for a great base to explore the region.

For instance, it’s actually home to the fascinating Clansman Centre (where appropriately attired experts demonstrate 17th-century clan weaponry and go over a few Scottish traditions) as well as a myriad of tour operators offering guided boat or hiking expeditions further inland.

Urquhart Castle and Loch Ness

This is perhaps one of the most emblematic sights in this Scotland itinerary. As a result, Urquhart Castle needs not a lengthy introduction.

Sitting on headland beside the Loch Ness in the Highlands, the castle played a preponderant role in the 14th-century Wars of Scottish Independence. As such, it was a royal castle for quite some time before it was ultimately destroyed in order to prevent its use by the Jacobite forces in the 17th century. Visitors are encouraged to walk amongst the ruins, which date back from the early 13th century. To clarify, though, archaeologists have said that the site was home to a medieval castle long before Urquhart as we know it came to be.

Nevertheless, it embodies precisely how visitors envision a multi-centennial Scottish castle. A drawbridge, a gatehouse, menacing towers, a ditch, and various closes.

Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is one of the few remaining places in Scotland to retain a markedly traditional Gaelic spirit, largely in part due to its insular geography. A place where history is momentarily not so much about Kings and Queens and bloody combats but rather with Viking legends and faeries.

Moreover, the Isle of Skye holds postcard-worthy landscapes and panoramas, with sandy beaches and towering mountains and quaint villages. Is that enough to make it a compulsory stop on any Scotland itinerary? Certainly.

Hogwarts Express and Glenfinnan

I travelled to a lot of places where Harry Potter was either set in the books or was actually filmed. But nothing even compares to the thrill of seeing the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct!

What we call the Hogwarts Express is actually the Jacobite Train, which runs the 84-mile stretch between Fort William and Mallaig on the West Highland Railway Line. Above all, it’s often dubbed one of the greatest rail journeys in the world, and rightfully so if I do say so myself.

In summary, the scenery is absolutely stunning.

Whiskey distilleries in Scotland

Distilleries are to Scotland what vineyards are to France and Italy; they’re essentially the Holy Grail of all things Scottish. Fortunately, though, there is far enough offer to meet the increasingly large demand.

For most adult males, each sip of scotch is an experience akin to the celestial skies opening up onto a group of angels chanting harmoniously. Rumour has it that the primitive name for scotch is actually derived from uisge beatha, meaning “water of life”, make of that what you will.

For others, mostly me from what I understand, scotch is a form of torture that I simply cannot tolerate (I’m a gin girl, what can I say).

It might be worth popping in your local liquor shop to find out what your preferred flavours are (single malt or blend? young or aged? smoky or grassy?) in order to visit the distillery that is most likely to reflect your personal taste. A few noteworthy scotch distilleries in Scotland according to connoisseurs:

• Glenfarclas, Speyside
• Lagavulin Distillery, Isle of Islay
• Highland Park Distillery, Orkney
• Glenmorangie, Highland
• The Glenlivet, Speyside

The NC500

Out of time, out of place. With its barren landscapes, Northern Scotland crystallizes the sensation that you just  may have reached the end of the world, where relentless winds would make even the most stoic Queen’s Guards shudder.

Hauntingly beautiful, wild and rugged, this was Scotland like I had never seen before. I ventured off the beaten path and surrender to the raw charm of the now famed 500-mile stretch of road colloquially known as the North Coast 500.

In other words, it encompasses some of Scotland’s most remote locations as well as scenic lighthouses, beaches, mountains and vistas. I truly cannot praise this tourist route enough and it is an absolute must on any Scotland itinerary.

Gin distilleries in Scotland

Essentially the clear spirits’ answer to the ever-so-popular whiskey, the Scotland Gin Trail is a cheeky tourist route crafted by Visit Scotland harnessing the diversity and creativity of passionate entrepreneurs across the country.

Encompassing both mass producers and emerging craft distillers, the ambitious bucket list criss-crosses all of Scotland from Dumfries to the tip-top of the Highlands. Consequently, it teaches visitors the evolution of gin and how it became intricate part of Britain’s modern fabric. To summarize, whether you’re just an amateur or a connoisseur, it would be unthinkable not to visit a gin distillery on your Scotland itinerary.

• Harris Distillery: This award-winning gin has botanicals hand-harvested by a local diver from the deep underwater forests of the Scottish Outer Hebrides.

• Dunnet Bay Distillers: By far the most gintertaining (oopsie) stop visit on my itinerary! Dunnet Bay Distillers is an experience in its own right. Getting there is remarkable enough to begin with! To clarify, the wee distillery soars in the distance of the beachy coast of mainland Scotland’s most northerly county, Caithness, famous for its relentless winds and its barren landscapes.

• Eden Mill: A classic London-style dry gin in the heart of beautiful St. Andrews! Made from one of Fifes’ indigenous berries with a hint of citrus for a fresh finish.

• Badachro Distillery: One of the best small-batch, artisan gins in Scotland. It’s infused with dozens of hand-picked botanicals from the woodlands and shores of Gairloch.

• Balmenach Distillery: Caorunn gin is one of the most famous Scottish gins in the world, for a reason. Enjoy the professionally-led visit!

• Thompson Bros Distillers: A wee organic distillery led by the Thompson brothers in the quaint village of Dornoch. Their gin features light, subtle herbal note.

• Secret Garden Distillery: Masterfully created by the owners of my favourite hotel in the Highlands, this is an entirely natural and fine, fine gin.

The post Scotland itinerary: 12 sights & attractions you can’t miss appeared first on To Europe And Beyond.

Although it’s currently used as a tourist attraction and a museum, it was originally built to be used as a fortress by military forces.

The history of Caernarfon Castle

Located on the outskirts of the coastal town Caernarfon, the impressive Caernarfon Castle sits back from the sea under striking cliff faces. Its history goes back to 1120 when King Henry I ordered a huge Norman castle to be built in order to control the strategic location of this area; in 1283 it changed hands with Edward I who then started extending the stronghold until it became one of most heavily defended in Britain with huge towers and fortifications.

Caernarfon castle is a must-see for any history fan. It’s amazingly well preserved and interesting to explore, especially if you have an interest in medieval architecture, or Welsh culture and history.

Caernarfon Castle is a well-preserved medieval fortress in Gwynedd, Wales. It’s located on the River Seiont, overlooking the town of Caernarfon. It’s been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle was built by Edward I in 1283 after he conquered Wales during the late 13th century. Edward had a strong desire to make an impressive statement about his power and authority over this area so designed the castle with this in mind. It has several towers which are widely considered to be some of the best examples of military architecture in Britain!

If you’re a history buff, then you’ll love Caernarfon Castle. It’s a fascinating spot to visit, especially if you have an interest in medieval architecture, or Welsh culture and history.

The legend of King Arthur at Caernarfon Castle

Rumour has it that King Edward I of England strongly believed in King Arthur. He even went as far as using the legend to strengthen his own claim to the throne at Caernarfon Castle.

In essence, the legend of King Arthur was extremely popular in Wales during the reign of King Edward I of England.

Most locals believed in the prophecy of a messianic king returning from the dead to banish enemies from their land and living in a unified Wales. Edward I leveraged this common belief to his advantage. He shamelessly claimed Wales would indeed live freely and peacefully under English rule. This was further on adopted by all Plantagenet kings until the 15th century.

Royal Family at Caernarfon Castle

Did you know? The castle has a long association with the title of Prince of Wales. The Prince of Wales is, still to this day, the next-in-line to the throne of the United Kingdom. Why? Because Edward I’s first son was born at Caernarfon Castle, making him the very first Prince of Wales.

It was the location in 1911 for the investiture of Prince Edward as the Prince of Wales who would later become King Edward VIII. He is most famously known for being one of the shortest-reigning British monarchs to date. With just 236 days on the throne! King Edward adbicated because of his love for American divorcee Wallis Simpson, who was deemed unsuitable to become queen by the British people.

He later became the Duke of Windsor, as depicted in the Netflix series The Crown.

More recently, the investiture of Prince Charles as the Prince of Wales took place here on July 1, 1969. It was televised around the world and watched by millions. And while William is the new Prince of Wales, there are no plans for an official investiture ceremony any time soon.

Useful Wales travel tips

Where to stay in Caernarfon

I stayed at the stunning traditional pub in the heart of Caernarfon village, 400-year old Black Boy Inn. I recommend dining in the wildly atmospheric, Tudor-looking pub downstairs before heading up to one of the charming rooms with four poster beds.

Welsh language

The Welsh language has its own unique set of sounds. As such, it can be difficult to understand if you’re not used to hearing it spoken regularly—and there are many words in Welsh that don’t have direct translations into English.

But it’s worth learning some basic phrases before your trip. You’ll be able to communicate with locals at least somewhat effectively as soon as you arrive. Or in any case, even just show off your appreciation for one of their most famous exports).

Getting to Caernarfon

The castle is easy to get to, by either road or public transport. There are regular buses from Caernarfon town centre and the railway station which stop nearby.

Caernarfon Castle is a popular tourist destination, so services are frequent and reliable during peak season (April-September). You may want to check timetables if you’re planning on visiting outside these months. If you don’t have a car, there are plenty of things to do in the surrounding area. Visiting Llandudno beach or exploring Penrhyn Slate Quarry are good options!

Visiting Caernarfon Castle

The castle is open year-round with varying schedules, but mostly between 9:30 am and 5 pm. Tickets cost £11.10 per adult and £7.80 for children aged 5-17.

The post Visiting stunning Caernarfon Castle and village in Wales appeared first on To Europe And Beyond.

The issue I have with afternoon tea is that the vast majority of hotels and restaurants offer a variation of it; one really doesn’t have to go above and beyond to find one. However, the sad reality is that a very lucky few are something to write home about – tasteless scones, lukewarm tea, and unnecessarily heavy clotted cream are unfortunately a common fixture in a city where most tourists won’t even notice the difference between day-old and fresh-out-of-the-oven pâtisseries.

But not at sketch. You truly haven’t had a proper afternoon tea in London until you’ve sat down in sketch’s legendary monochromatic blush-coloured Gallery.

Afternoon tea in London

The historic building in which sketch is housed was built in 1779 as the Royal Institute of British Architects; it later on became the London Atelier of famed haute-couture brand Christian Dior. With that in mind, it only seems fitting that sketch would not only celebrate but pursue the experimental, artsy heritage with its incredibly forward-thinking restaurants.

Well before my taste buds got excited by the sweet smorgasbord ahead of me, my camera and my hands got a life of their own and snapped every corner of this spectacular David Shrigley-designed room, which is complemented by the adjoining toilet pods (yes, I swear you read that right) and the exotic Glade room.

The attention to details – where the devil truly hides as far as interior design is concerned – is astounding. Everything, from the muted pink hue to the antiquey-looking champagne glasses, and from the cheeky works of art adorning the walls to Shrigley’s witty tableware, is impeccably assorted.

Was I impressed? Absolutely. It’s been just over a month since my visit and I am *still* talking about those finger sandwiches. I speak from experience when I say this: when cucumber sandwiches – one of the blandest possible dish ever imagined – are memorably fresh, crispy, and savoury, you know it’s bound to be a legendary afternoon tea.

What followed was an explosion of flavours complemented by my and my friend Julie‘s entire lexical field of the word “yummy”. Hands up if you’ve got a sweet tooth that can handle more than the top button of your jeans ever will allow. I know I do!

sketch afternoon tea menu

• Assorted finger sandwiches: corn-fed coronation chicken, smoked salmon and Jacob’s tarragon cream, green asparagus and cucumber ricotta, mozzarella and pesto panini, as well as mayonnaise, egg, quail egg and caviar
• Sultana scones with fig & strawberry jam
• The two-bites pastries: guariguette strawberry tartlet, Battenberg cake, opera, rhubarb cheesecake, Malabar marshmallow, Kalamansi meringue, as well as violet and raspberry choux
• And, to conclude, a full-sized sketch pastry: salted caramel chocolate fondant or caramelised scented cardamom pears and Tahiti vanilla dome

Yeah. I wasn’t lying. YUM.

Is afternoon tea at sketch worth the price?

At £75 per head, this afternoon of festivities doesn’t come cheap. Indeed, sketch is one of the priciest afternoon teas in London, especially if you #treatyoself to champagne (£89). But if you couldn’t already tell by my dithyrambic review of the menu and space, I think the experience is entirely worth it – because that’s exactly what it is: an experience.

This afternoon tea isn’t just about scones and herbal beverages. It’s about being immersed in a completely cohesive ensemble, from the über-feminine decor to the quirky tableware, from the out-of-this-world pastries to the impossibly photogenic displays. Even the washrooms are worth the detour.

I’m certain afternoon tea at Claridge’s or the Lanesborough’s is really quite enjoyable in a quintessentially English sort of way. However I would wholeheartedly recommend going at sketch for a truly unforgettable, distinguished, one-of-a-kind experience for all senses.

Tips for afternoon tea at sketch

• There is no official dress code for afternoon tea but you definitely want to put your most fashionable dress on. Although the staff was oh so kind to me, I was impossibly underdressed with my street-London-friendly-but-not-afternoon-tea-ready denim on denim outfit.
• sketch has four other rooms, each with a distinctive menu, dress code, atmosphere, and decor.
• If you want to get the best possible photos of the Gallery, book your afternoon tea right at the opening. Be there a tad early while the room is virtually empty; it gets quite full by 1pm.
• Afternoon tea is available every day of the week 12:30pm – 4:30pm.

The post Is this real life? Or that time I had afternoon tea at sketch in London appeared first on To Europe And Beyond.

20 odd years later, the saga remains one of the most prosperous, irreducible franchises in film and writing. This has obviously translated into tourism as well, since both England and Scotland served as broody backdrops throughout the seven movies.

Here are 25+ real-life Harry Potter filming locations scattered across Britain that are open to wizarding visitors. From the Scottish Highlands to English castles and beyond!

Harry Potter filming locations in England

Oxford: Bodleian Library & Christ Church

Do you remember when Harry went into Hogwarts’ library undetected due to his invisibility cloak? Well, the Duke Humfrey’s Library, the oldest reading room in the Bodleian Library, was where all that magic was filmed. Private tour are mandatory for this part of the library… unless you have an invisibility cloak! Let’s not forget that the Bodleian Library also acted as the infirmary in four of the movies.

Another important Harry Potter site in Oxford is Christ Church’s Great Hall. It’s so obviously the inspiration for the Hogwarts Dining Hall with its elongated wooden tables and vaulted ceilings.

When you visit Christ Church, take notice of the grand staircase leading into the Great Hall. This is the filming location for when the wizarding trio first arrives at Hogwarts and enters the Great Hall to meet Professor McGonagall.

Lacock Village and Abbey

Lacock is one of the most popular stops for Harry Potter filming locations. With reason: several scenes were shot here over the course of the entire franchise.

Walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter and Hogwarts students as you explore the grounds of Lacock Abbey. It was used for multiple Hogwarts interior scenes. Firstly, the Mirror of Erised scenes, and secondly, Professor Snape’s and Professor Quirrell’s classrooms.

Further out in the village you’ll walk past Harry Potter’s childhood home and Horace Slughorn’s House. Now, remember that these are private residences. Please be respectful of the people living there!

Additional Harry Potter locations in England

• Alnwick Castle: The castle grounds are where Harry takes his first flying lesson in The Sorcerer’s Stone. Alnwick Castle is also where Harry learned the rules of Quidditch. Fun fact: the castle is fascinating and dates back to the 11th century!
• Black Park Country Park: You may recognize it as the location of Hagrid’s hut during the first two films, as the Forbidden Forest, and where Hagrid takes Harry to see the dragons in The Goblet of Fire. Fun fact: Black Park appears at least once in every Harry Potter film.
• Goathland Station: Does Goathland Station not ring a bell? That’s because Warner Bros. transformed it into Hogsmeade Station as the final stop of the Hogwarts Express.
• Martins Heron: Only true Potterheads will take a trip to the suburbs to visit Harry’s childhood home. 4 Privet Drive was where we first met Harry and the unpleasant Dursley family in The Sorcerer’s Stone. Exterior shots of the house were filmed at 12 Picket Post Close in Martins Heron, in Berkshire.
• Seven Sisters Country Park: The cliffs of Dover are in The Goblet of Fire. In the Quidditch World Cup scenes, look out for when Harry walks up the hill to find an ominous boot…
• Durham Cathedral: The historic cathedral was in The Sorcerer’s Stone, when Harry releases Hedwig from his hand in the snow-covered quadrangle cloisters.

Harry Potter filming locations in London

Leadenhall Market

London’s most beautiful Victorian market was the location of some of the Diagon Alley scenes. Leadenhall Market also houses the shop used as the entrance of the Leaky Cauldron in The Goblet of Fire.

Claremont Square

Claremont Square is featured as 12 Grimmauld Place exterior shots in The Order of the Phoenix and The Deathly Hallows Part 1.

In real life, the Order’s headquarters are located just a stone throw’s from King’s Cross in Islington. The square’s odd shape is due to the fact that it used to be a… water reservoir!

The Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Naturally, I beelined for the Harry Potter Studios when I last visited London. I didn’t care how much of a nerd that made me! You can tell by watching the movies how much thought was put into details and how precise J.K. Rowling’s storylines are; they used advanced technology to bring dragons and talking dogs and basilisks to life. I truly enjoyed learning all those secrets and seeing the behind-the-scenes.

How, exactly, do you do justice to such an imaginative, unrealistic yet incredibly relatable story? I don’t want to reveal any secrets or take away the fun parts of the visit. But I will say this: this is definitely one of the highlights of my life as a Potterhead.

Kings Cross Station

The iconic and utmost secret entrance to Platform 9 ¾ is in the heart of King’s Cross train station in London. The station is either filmed or hinted at in the majority of the early films. There is a massive Harry Potter souvenir shop right next to the the halved luggage cart.

You can get your picture taken for free but not without patience. There are quite lengthy queues on any given day.

Millennium Bridge

The Millennium Bridge collapsed into the River Thames during the Death Eater chase in the opening scene of The Half-Blood Prince.

The special effects required in this scene are simply spectacular, with the cables snapping and the structure undulating worryingly.

While the Death Eaters destroyed the bridge in the film, in reality the pedestrian-only bridge still stands strong. It offers great photo ops of the Thames and of the St. Paul’s Cathedral.

Westminster tube station

Harry & Arthur Weasley had their hilarious encounter with the muggles in the very heart of the London undergoround. While on their way to the Ministry of Magic in The Order of the Phoenix, the odd pair of wizards used the tube. But not without a few technology-related hiccups on Mr Weasley’s part!

Fun fact: The station is one of the busiest in London due to its central location. It sits nearby the Houses of Parliament, the eponymous abbey, and the London eye. And yet it closed to the public for an entire day to allow filming!

Piccadilly Circus

Think back to The Deathly Hallows – Part 1 when Harry, Ron, and Hermione had to leave Bill and Fleur’s wedding. Piccadilly Circus is featured in the scene where they are running through the West End.

Additional Harry Potter locations in London

• London Zoo: If you visit the world’s oldest scientific zoo, make sure to stop in their Reptile House. This is where a burmese python spoke to Harry in The Sorcerer’s Stone. It marks the moment  where he discovered his ability to speak Parseltongue.

• Great Scotland Yard makes an appearance in The Deathly Hallows Part 1 during Harry, Ron and Hermione’s preparations for entering the Ministry. It’s perhaps better known for the Ministry’s visitor’s entrance phone box used in The Order of the Phoenix.

• Surbiton Railway Station is located on the South Western Main Line about 10 miles southwest of London. This is where professor Dumbledore tries to bring Harry back to the Wizarding world in this memorable scene. Additionally, the railway cafe is where Harry sits reading The Daily Prophet after Death Eater’s attack at the Millennium Bridge stands on Platform 1.

• St Pancras Renaissance Hotel bears striking resemblance to Hogwarts! The 250-year old Gothic landmark is the entrance to King’s Cross station in The Chamber of Secrets. Remember when the duo of adolescent wizards pull into the station in Arthur Weasley’s now iconic sky blue Ford Anglia… only to miss the train altogether and end up flying all the way into Hogwart’s fiery Whomping Willows!

• Australia House is the entrance to the goblin-run Gringott’s Bank and its perilous vault in The Sorcerer’s Stone. As indicated by its name, the building is currently the home of the Australian High Commission.

• Lambeth Bridge: The triple-decker Knight Bus that Harry embarks on in The Prisoner of Azkaban mindblowingly compresses itself so tight between other buses right here on Lambeth Bridge. The purple, lightning-fast bus now permanently lives at the Harry Potter WB Studios.

Harry Potter filming locations in Scotland

The Elephant House

Grab a coffee and a good book so you can enjoy the coffeehouse where J.K. Rowling spent countless hours crafting the amazing world of Harry Potter.

Bring a marker so you can add your very own heartfelt message on the bathroom wall!

The Jacobite Train

Nothing even compares to the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct in Scotland for Harry Potter fans. Departing Fort William, the Hogwarts Express is open from April to October. Return tickets start at only £57.

In addition to being one of the major Harry Potter filming locations, it’s also one of Britain’s most iconic train journeys. It offers stunning views of lochs, mountains and Highland villages along the way.

Glen Coe

Glen Coe is frequently featured in film multiple scenes. Moreover, it’s the location for Hagrid’s Hut and the bridge leading to the entrance of Hogwarts.

Lochaber & Loch Shiel

Loch Shiel was one of the two gorgeous lakes used for Hogwarts Lake. Firstly in The Prisoner of Azkaban, where Buckbeak dipped his feet in the water while Harry rode on its back. Secondly in The Half-Blood Prince, where Harry and Hermione looked across Hogwarts Lake from the Astronomy Tower at the end of the movie.

Additional Harry Potter locations in Scotland

• Loch Eilt stood in for exterior shots of the Hogwarts grounds and as the island location of Dumbledore’s grave.

• Balmoral Hotel: In room 552 of this five-star hotel is where J.K. Rowling completed the final book of the series, The Deathly Hallows. You can book the J.K. Rowling Suite and a package that includes a private tour and Harry Potter-themed cocktails starting at £2,500 per night.

The post The ultimate Harry Potter bucket list in England & Scotland appeared first on To Europe And Beyond.

Brighton

Counter-culture and forward-thinking dispositions explain why Brighton is light-years away from the quaint fishing villages of coastal England.

Here, you’ll find the UK’s biggest gay scene, the most shocking venues, and the Channel’s best clubbing, along with the myriad of hipster cafés and vintage shops in Brighton Lanes. The beach, with its chippy stands and its whimsical Brighton Pier, truly is for everyone.

• Brighton Cycling Tour
• Brighton Walking Tour
• Sailing Sunset Cruise in Brighton

Oxford

How do you summarise a city steeped in a thousand year of academic history? Oxford is indeed quite privileged, being home to the world’s most famous university, but also utterly elegant and charming. Tour the colleges, have a pint where C.S. Lewis and J. R. R. Tolkien used to hang out, geek out at the Harry Potter filming locations, explore the quiet cobbled lanes, go up the Radcliffe Camera, hire a punt, go further afield at Blenheim Palace, walk in the footsteps of Prime Ministers and poets…

The possibilities, in lovely Oxford, really are endless. However, I cannot recommend a walking tour highly enough. Only pro guides are familiar with the details and hidden stories of this town.

• Oxford University Walking Tour
• Oxford Sightseeing River Cruise Including Picnic
• Windsor Castle, Stonehenge and Oxford
• Oxford, Warwick Castle and Stratford-upon-Avon Day

Liverpool

Liverpool has been working very hard to shed its reputation as a rough, rowdy city and good news: it’s working. The Albert Docks are quite lovely and the impressive cultural heritage is only enhanced by the equally important and legendary Beatles heritage.

• Magical Mystery Tour day trip
• 3.5-Hour Beatles Bike Tour in Liverpool
• Beatles Walking Tour

York

An immaculate circuit of 13th-century walls encloses a medieval spider’s web of quaint pedestrian streets – at its heart lies the immense, awe-inspiring York Minster, one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in the world.

The extraordinary historical wealth is prominently featured, as it should be, in the city’s plentiful pubs and cafés. In other words, York is amazing, and you really shouldn’t miss it.

• North York Moors and Whitby Day Trip from York
• Bespoke Walking Tour of York Walls
• Private 2-Hour York Walking Tour

Bath

Bath is best known for three things. Firstly, its sophisticated 18th-century Georgian architecture as demonstrated on the Royal Crescent. Secondly, the world’s best-preserved Roman bathhouses due to the natural hot springs the city is built over. Lastly, for being one of the prettiest and kindest cities in the heart of the rolling countryside of southwest England.

• England in One Day: Stonehenge, Bath, the Cotswolds and Stratford-upon-Avon
• Bath, Stonehenge and Salisbury
• Stonehenge, Bath and the Cotswolds
• Stonehenge, Windsor Castle and Bath

Stratford-upon-Avon

Not only is this market town Shakespeare’s birthplace, it’s also chock full of 800+-year-old buildings that would have been familiar to the Bard. It’s even possible to visit the very hall where he was first introduced to theatre!

• Private Tour: Stratford-upon-Avon Tour of William Shakespeare Sights
• Shakespeares Stratford and the Cotswolds
• Oxford, Cotswolds, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick Castle Day Trip from London

Paris

Maybe not the most obvious choice for day trips from London, it’s actually an easy option. If it’s your first trip to Europe, why not kill two birds with one stone and add Paris to your visit?

Thanks to Eurostar, central London and central Paris are now linked by a direct 2.5 hours train ride. Likewise, there’s no need to list all the reasons why a day trip to Paris is a good idea!

• Luxury Paris Day Trip with Champagne Lunch on the Eiffel Tower
• Fully Escorted Day Trip to Paris Including River Cruise

Stonehenge

Stonehenge isn’t bad at all – the sheer fact that these rocks were probably hauled all the way from Wales back in 2000 B.C. is actually very impressive, to say the least. To this day, specialists still don’t explicitly agree with its vocation. Was Stonehenge a healing temple, a sun worshiping place, a burial site or a life-size calendar? No one knows for sure.

To clarify, I highly suggest getting either an early or private entry to Stonehenge. You’ll be able to get closer to the rocks that way. I did the regular tour and regretted it, as the stones are quite far.

• Private Viewing of Stonehenge including Bath and Lacock
• Early Access to Stonehenge with Specialist Guide Including Bath and Windsor Visit

Dover

Dover is a great discovery. Do walk the scenic North Downs Way, a trail that follows the famous white cliffs. If you want to see those cliffs from another angle, hop on the Dover-Calais ferry and enjoy the views (prices vary).

Beside the cliffs, another jewel of Dover is the castle. It’s one the most ancient Roman construction of Britain, built 2000 years ago. Known as the “Key to England” because of its military history, it was last used during the WWII (check out the Secret Wartime Tunnels part of the Castle). But don’t spend all your time indoors; get out and smell the fresh air!

• Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover and Greenwich with Thames River Cruise
• Leeds Castle, Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury with Guided Cathedral Tour

Windsor

Visit the Queen’s favourite weekend home – the world’s oldest, largest inhabited castle! Just an hour from London and easily combinable with other landmarks in the area.

• Half-day tour including entry to Windsor Castle from London
• Windsor Castle with transport from London
• 5.5-hour trip from London to Windsor Castle with lunch

Cotswolds

Rolling gracefully across six counties, the Cotswolds are a delightful tangle of glorious villages, thatch-roofed cottages, rickety almshouses and ancient mansions of honey-coloured stone. In fact, these hills are perfect for walking, cycling, and even horse riding, crisscrossed by the 102-mile Cotswold Way. My favourite villages are Bourton-on-the-Water, Castle Combe, Bibury, and Chipping Campden. On the other hand if you’d rather have a guided tour, there are plenty of departures from London every day.

• 2-Day Cotswolds, Bath and Oxford Small-Group Tour from London
• Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds Tour from London
• The Cotswolds Day Trip from London

Downton Abbey

I wrote about my day trip experience at Highclere Castle (the castle’s actual name), which also included stops in Oxford and Bampton, which acted as Downton Village. In essence, if you’re a fan of the series this expedition is definitely a must-do!

• Downton Abbey and Highclere Castle Tour from London

Leeds Castle

Is Leeds Castle the prettiest in England? Quite possibly. A noble property, surrounded by a moat and only accessible by a drawbridge, with imposing stone towers and lavish gardens, perhaps? Because that’s exactly what the Leeds Castle looks like. A picture perfect portrait!

Moreover, a lovely part of the castle grounds is the beautiful garden. You can actually tell when you get closer to it because the smell of flowers is very strong and very appealing. Peonies, poppies, lad’s love, roses, lupins, and about a dozen other flowers await in a classic English garden design.

• Leeds Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Dover and Greenwich with Thames River Cruise
• Leeds Castle, Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury with Guided Cathedral Tour

The best day trips from London: places I haven’t been to yet but look amazing

• Whitstable

• Lacock

• Rye

• Deal
• Dungeness
• Hastings
• Mersea Island
• Canterbury
• Cambridge

The post 17 easy day trips from London appeared first on To Europe And Beyond.

Who was King Arthur?

Surprisingly enough for someone of such notoriety, very little is known about the heroic Romano-British warrior chief. Aside, of course, from literary inventions and romanticised folklore tales gleaned and slightly embroidered from the Annales Cambriae and the Historia Brittonum. That’s not to say he’s entirely made up; a fearless warrior chief might have very well existed in early medieval Britain.

But the chances that he slew dragons and bloodthirsty giants — much less defeated —  as a hobby are, from a rational standpoint, rather slim.

King Arthur is said to have led the defence of Britain against Saxon invaders in the early 700s. He established an empire over not only Britain but also Norway, Gaul, Iceland and Ireland, aided by his mystic sidekick Merlin, his knights of the round table and his beloved wife Guenievre.

It’s unclear whether he was Welsh or English as neither present-day countries were formally established at the time, but the first-ever references to the character were written in Welsh; and some 1500 odd years later, Arthurian legends are unequivocally stronger in Wales, still.

Mount Snowdon

With its rocky outcrops and inexplicably mystical atmosphere, Mount Snowden is truly a gem. It’s no surprise Wales’ and England’s rooftop, at 1080 metres, is intrinsically associated with Arthurian legends!

The daring warrior reputedly fought and vanquished the mountain’s fearsome resident, a murderous giant named Rhitta. His dearest yet impossibly morbid project was to create a cape out of his enemies — basically anyone bold enough to pay him a visit — beards. Yet only one man was able to slay him: King Arthur. He hurriedly covered the corpse with massive boulders atop the mountain the giant once ruled. Legend says that Arthur’s knights, who unfortunately did not survive the battle, still sleep beneath the surface.

Make your way atop Mount Snowden to tread along the very location of perhaps the most famous Arthurian tale. Hike up the 1080 metres if you’re up to the physical challenge or get to Clogwyn with the historic Snowdon Railway.

Caernarfon Castle

Rumour has it that King Edward I of England strongly believed in King Arthur; he even went as far as using the legend to strengthen his own claim to the throne at Caernarfon Castle. The fortress is built on the ruins of a Norman motte and bailey castle and, even before that, a Roman fort; it’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And you would be right to think it looks like it means business, as this was Edward I’s whole point: to make Caernarfon Castle intimidating and pompous in order to scare off enemies.

Did you know? The Prince of Wales is, still to this day, the next-in-line to the throne of the United Kingdom because Edward I’s first son was born at Caernarfon Castle, making him the very first Prince of Wales. This is where investitures take place, including that of HRH Prince Charles.

Dinas Emrys

Dinas Emrys is one of the most significant King Arthur locations in Wales. Why? For the sole reason that this is where the infamous meeting between Vortigern and a young wizard named Merlin took place.

See, the warlord fled to Wales to escape Anglo-Saxon invaders. For months on end, he had his men build a fortress only to find the masonry collapsed the next morning. Vortigern needed a culprit; a boy, whose real name was Myrddin Emrys, was procured but closely escaped death. The warlord had planned to sacrifice the boy in order to be rid the supernatural powers that prevented him from building a much-needed hillfort. However, Merlin’s wit prevailed; he promptly recognised the source of the unrest, claiming it was a hidden underground pool where the White Dragon of the Saxons and the Welsh Red Dragon were engaged in an epic battle.

The red dragon won and is now Wales’ national symbol.

Nant Gwynant Pass

Overlooking Llyn Gwynant 600 feet above, this panoramic point off the A498 deep in the mountains of Snowdonia is one of the most pivotal King Arthur locations in the Legend of the Sword. It truly is a spectacular and very special place! It offers unparalleled views of remarkable Snowdonia landscapes shaped by glaciations thousands of years ago.

Llydaw, Dinas and Ogwen Lakes

Although no one can pretend to know the precise resting place of Excalibur, Arthur’s legendary sword, it’s always been said that it’s hidden somewhere deep in the lakes of Snowdonia.

Lakes Llydaw, Dinas and Ogwen are the most obvious contenders — one of them has got to be the right one! Plus, they’re all quite close to each other. Consequently, it’s very doable to see all of them on the same day and analyse the likeliness of the mystical sword resting at the bottom. The lakes are rather widely featured throughout the movie.

Betws Y Coed

This is where the cast and crew of King Arthur: Legend of the Sword movie stayed during filming.

In addition to being one of the most beautiful villages in Wales, Betws Y Coed is historically rather significant. Firstly, as the main coaching centre between eastern and western Wales. Secondly, as a major stop along the Irish mail route from London. Do not miss the beautiful Pont-y-Pair Bridge and River Llugwy! Betws Y Coed, the gateway to Snowdonia, is a great base for exploring Northern Wales.

Maen Huail, Ruthin

This is a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it kind of Arthurian attraction! But it’s well worth a visit nonetheless, if only for an overnight at the village’s Ruthin Castle. The limestone block that sits right next to Barclays Bank in the town centre is said to be the very stone on which King Arthur beheaded his rival Huail. You see, the young warrior had the fatal idea to raid Arthur’s lands and nick one of his mistresses, resulting in his inevitable death.

Llanberis

The second largest slate quarry in Wales was most recently used to film a scene in the King Arthur: Legend of the Sword movie. The king is seen jumping off a dizzying cliff in the Dinorwic Quarry into the dark waters of the lake below. These are the coordinates.

If you’re an avid scuba diver, know that the lake is so deep that it’s now one of Wales’ top diving centres.

Ullswater

Moving on from Wales to northern England’s Dark Lake, where Arthurian legends are also quite vivid. A cruise on mythical Ullswater Lake aboard a centennial steamer — one of the oldest working passenger vessels in the world. Nearby Dunmallard Hill at Pooley Bridge is believed to be the burial mound of Sir Tristian, one of the Knights of the Round Table.

Additionally, another noble Knight of the Round Table named Sir Eglamore lived at the ancient castle of Baron Lyulph nearby. The boat even has a King Arthur app highlighting the stories and myths in each location.

King Arthur’s Round Table

Turns out that King Arthur’s round table isn’t an actual table with chairs and a pendant light. In reality, it’s a Neolithic earthwork henge dating back 4000 years. It’s believed to be King Arthur’s jousting arena, consisting of a low circular platform surrounded by a wide ditch.

Although the exact purpose of this henge remains unknown, legend supposes that this is where King Arthur met with regional rulers to trade and talk politics.

Carlisle Castle

Welcome to the original Camelot! Or, at least, what is said to be Camelot. Indeed, Carlisle Castle is rumoured to be the location of King Arthur’s headquarters, with both him and his advisor Merlin making great use of the Roman fortifications. Camelot is the place where Arthur and Guenievre were married and lived.

Whether or not you believe in the Arthurian legends doesn’t matter. Carlisle Castle is fascinating in its own right! William Rufus built it in 1092; it later on served as a prison for the infamous Mary, Queen of Scots’. And given the proximity of Carlisle to the Anglo-Scottish border, it’s also the most sieged castle in England.

The post The legend of King Arthur: the most significant locations in Wales and England appeared first on To Europe And Beyond.

Until last month.

And even then – I was supposed to visit Glasgow back in the spring, but yet again, destiny had other plans. I almost couldn’t believe I was actually going to visit until I was comfortably seated on the plane on my way to Scotland’s up and coming city. You can imagine my excitement when I finally tightened my scarf – this is Scotland after all, I knew what to expect weather-wise – and put on my walking shoes, ready to explore this thriving city.

What used to be called the “second city of the British Empire”, because of its flourishing chemicals, textiles, and engineering industries, definitely surprised me.

How to spend 72 hours in Glasgow

Architecture walking tour

This is definitely a must. Glasgow boasts an incredibly architectural heritage, with a distinct turn-of-the-century industrial style that holds more than meets the eye.  From Victorian influences to Charles Rennie Mackintosh’s innovative design, the tour offered by the Glasgow School of Art is led by passionate students who are more than happy to share their knowledge of the city and point out intricately ornate buildings or fun trivia whenever they can.

Shop ’til you drop

With one of the city most sought-after attractions being named the “Style Mile”, it’s no wonder Glasgow is such an ideal shopping destination. Think all of London’s high street fashion, minus the insufferable crowds. Buchanan Street is where it’s at, from one end to another. But those looking for a more affordable and quirky experience should not fret, as Glasgow’s West End is pretty much the thrift shopping capital of the world. There are dozens of charity and second-hand shops in the neighbourhood, for a budget-friendly day out in the city.

Eat your way through the West End

Speaking of the West End, few other districts in the city offer such gourmet yet diversified options. This really was one of my favourite past-times while I was in Glasgow, hopping from one café to another. Often referred to as the bohemian side of Glasgow, the West End deserves at least a full day of exploration. Here are my favourite eateries in the area:

• Ox and Finch, a contemporary and relaxed shared dining (think Scottish tapas)
• Kember and Jones, a lovely cafe with delicious baked goods
• Soba, pan-Asian street food and cocktails
• Peckhams, Glasgow’s best fine grocer
• Epicures of Hynland, locally-sourced restaurant with an awesome terrace
• The Little Café, a no-frills yet stylish place to grab lunch before hitting Kelvingrove
• Mother India Café, a delicious, authentic and affordable curry house

Cycle around

Not unlike so many other cities in the world including my hometown of Montreal, Glasgow has a fun, easy to use bike sharing scheme. With stations in both the West End, the Style Mile and South Side and more, it’s actually an enjoyable mode of transportation on a sunny day. And let’s be honest, it’s it’s sunny in Scotland then you better make the most of it and stay outdoors! I rented a bike to cycle from the Riverside Museum all the way to Glasgow University and it was such a hoot!

Hit the museums

Glasgow definitely doesn’t have to envy London as far as museums go! I personally visited three, the first one being, of course, the Kelvingrove Museum. It is the most famous of all, and with reason; this Glasgow Victorian landmark hosts one of the finest civic collections in Europe. I mean, the museum itself in an attraction in its own right!

I also enjoyed the brand new Riverside Museum, which boasts an excellent collection of vehicles and models to tell the story of transport by land and sea, with a unique Glasgow flavour. I particularly enjoyed the tall ship and the hugely popular historic Glasgow street scene from the early 1900s – complete with a subway carriage!

Lastly, those with a good set of legs should definitely climb up the 162 steps (I counted!!!) up the Lighthouse, Scotland’s Centre for Design and Architecture, for an amazing view over the city.

Walk in the park

Glasgow boasts amazing green spaces from one end to another of the city. I personally loved, loved, loved the Botanic Gardens, which were a bucolic sight for sore eyes after a long day of walking around the West End. The Victorian greenhouse and the colourful gardens are just too photogenic not to share! Close by is the popular Kelvingrove Park, which has long been Glaswegians’ favourite place to jog, chill or picnic. Being just next to Glasgow University it is understandably full of hard-working (or not!) students, giving the park a very lively feel.

Go back to school

While I am perfectly aware that Glasgow has nothing to do with Harry Potter, I couldn’t help but feel like I had walked right into Hogwarts when I entered the University’s campus. It is the fourth oldest Uni in the English-speaking world (established 1451), and also one of the country’s most prestigious. Accio wand and striped scarf, please?

72 hours in Glasgow: Practical Info

• Glasgow’s main centre is a very walkable, but it is a bit of a stretch to get to other areas from there, including the West End. I recommend using the subway, which is super tiny, super cute, super cheap and super easy to use.
• If all else fails, black cabs are also extremely affordable – nothing like London’s!
• And because the city is so spread out, I recommend using the Hop On Hop Off service to get to far off attractions like the Kelvingrove Museum, the Riverside Museum and the Botanic Gardens, which are all worth a visit.

The post 72 Hours In Glasgow appeared first on To Europe And Beyond.