It's the second month back in the UK but there has only been one overnight trip so far, a trip up to North Wales. It's now time to embark on a longer trip, one that was planned months ago. We're heading north to 'Bonnie Scotland', the first time for my partner but the third for me. The last time I was there I spent a week on a Holiday Property Bond site and it's to that very site I am returning today, The only concern is the distance; not far short of 400 miles. Because the HPB property is self-catering, there is also the logistical problem of bringing enough fresh food to set us up baring in mind the remoteness of the Bond location. With steady progress, it should still be a comfortable all-day drive.
Given the direction of travel today, I'm confident of adding an important event on the way which allows for a break within the lunch window. To ensure there's no unnecessary pressure, we need to leave home around 8 am. This means waking up before 6 am. Now let's get the wagon rolling.
The weather today isn't ideal with the rain expected. We head to Worcester and pick up the M5. The expected rain duly arrives and becomes more persistent. Moving up through the Midlands we make good time as we head up to Manchester. Across the Pennines the rain gets worse as we enter Cumbria. Thankfully, at Carlisle the rain relents. We've made good time and load up with shopping, but the highlight of the day occurs down at Carlisle Railway Station where a Steam Train Special is about to depart. It's a great opportunity and we're on the platform for over an hour.
It's gone 3 pm as we continue our journey north. However, the rain returns with a vengeance as we enter Scotland and across the Scottish Lowlands heading for Glasgow. From Glasgow, we head for Stirling and ever since we left Worcester we've been driving along the motorway, but that's about to change. We turn west towards The Trossochs and the Bond property at Tigh Mor. By contrast to the major part of the drive, we are now on minor roads and progress is slow-going. It would be tedious were it not for the amazing scenery about to greet us. Nevertheless, it's been a long day for me and we still have to move into our accommodation and set ourselves up for a self-catering existence. One huge positive however, it's that it's brightened up and the view from Tigh Mor is stunning as it looks over Loch Achray. Regarding the property, it's excellent in every way as is the standard for the HPB. Thankfully, arriving at 6 pm gives us ample time to warm some food get organised. Tomorrow we can plan day trips from here.

Source: Visit