Plan Your Dream Scottish Adventure with Points & Miles

If you’re dreaming of exploring Scotland’s (and Britian’s) stunning countryside, charming towns, A family road trip through Scotland and Britain is the perfect way to experience the stunning landscapes, charming towns, and historic landmarks without breaking the bank.

The best part? You can do it all using points and miles! Whether you’re dreaming of castles, beautiful countryside, or coastal views, it’s possible to explore these amazing destinations for less. Here’s how to plan your dream Scottish and English road trip using points and miles.

As someone who gets most of their dramatized history lessons from Game of Thrones, The Crown, and Downton Abbey, I couldn’t help but feel like I had stepped into a real-life version of those captivating shows during this trip. From the landscapes to the castles that seemed straight out of a period drama, this Scottish and English road trip was nothing short of incredible.

1. Explore the Scottish Borders with a Scenic Road Trip

We rented a car in Edinburgh (using points for the rental) and made our way to the picturesque Scottish Border, where the countryside unfolds like a living postcard. From charming towns like Kelso to ancient castles and abbeys, the trip was full of adventure.

Don’t miss these spots on your road trip:

• Kelso: A charming market town with great food options. (We also stopped by Lidl, similar to Aldi in the US, for quick bites to keep food costs down.)
  
• Peebles: A market town with local shops and a fantastic atmosphere.
  
• Holy Island: Cross the causeway at low tide and explore this peaceful island.
  
  The Border Abbeys are a collection of historic sites along the Scottish-English border, each offering something unique.
  
• Kelso Abbey features impressive ruins and a quiet atmosphere, perfect for exploring its 12th-century history.
  
• Melrose Abbey is known for its stunning Gothic architecture and connection to Robert the Bruce, adding depth to the experience.
  
• Dryburgh Abbey, by the River Tweed, is a peaceful spot with beautiful grounds and the resting place of Sir Walter Scott. My personal favorite!
  
• Jedburgh Abbey showcases Romanesque architecture and offers a calm, historical setting.

2. Stay at Schloss Roxburgh Using Hyatt Points

Our stay at Schloss Roxburgh, a revamped luxury hotel located in the Scottish Borders, was an unforgettable part of our trip. Nestled on a sprawling estate, the property offers golf courses, a spa, and various country sports activities—perfect for families or couples looking for a peaceful retreat.

The hotel’s luxurious amenities, including spacious rooms and family-friendly activities, made it the perfect base for our adventures. The kids had a blast enjoying the playground and grouds.

Insider Tip: If you’re a Hyatt member, you can redeem points for stays at Schloss Roxburgh, making this incredible experience even more affordable.

3. Must-Visit Castles & Historical Sites

Scotland and Northern England are full of historic castles and ruins, and we explored a few that you’ll definitely want to add to your itinerary:

• Floors Castle (currently closed when we visited) – Take a tour of Scotland’s largest inhabited castle.
• Alnwick Castle – Featured in Harry Potter, this place is a must-see next time. If you prefer a guided tour, you can book a Harry Potter’s Alnwick Castle and Scottish Borders Day Trip, which is a fantastic way to learn all about the castle’s rich history while experiencing the magic of the film location.
• Bamburgh Castle – One of the UK’s most majestic castles, Bamburgh Castle is perched between a Northumbria sandy beach and the village of Bamburgh. Built in the 19th century on the site of an Anglo-Saxon citadel, this iconic landmark lures visitors with its stately halls, armor, a keep, and walls offering epic coastal views.

While some castles were closed during our trip, Bamburgh Castle was open and it did not disappoint. With sweeping views of the coastline, it’s definitely a must-see!

4. Experience the Beauty of the Northumberland Coast

The Northumberland Coast National Landscape is absolutely stunning. With its dramatic cliffs and serene beaches, it’s a hidden treasure in the UK. After our visit to Bamburgh Castle, we explored the coastline, and it became one of our favorite spots for a family adventure.

Walking the Coastal Path

The Northumberland Coast Path stretches 62 miles from Cresswell in the south to Berwick-upon-Tweed in the north, passing through some of the area’s most picturesque locations, including Bamburgh, Warkworth, and Embleton Bay. The path offers sweeping views of the coastline and is perfect for a scenic, peaceful walk.

Whether you’re exploring hidden coves, spotting wildlife, or simply relaxing by the sea, this walk is a great way to connect with nature and spend quality time together. We loved it!

If you’re traveling with kids, the Northumberland Coast Path is a fantastic way to introduce them to outdoor activities, all while enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery.

5. How to Get There & Fly Using Points

The best part? You can fly to Edinburgh using points and miles! Whether you’re flying with a major airline or booking through points transfer programs like Chase Ultimate Rewards or American Express Membership Rewards, there are plenty of options to get to Scotland without emptying your wallet.

Be sure to use your travel credit cards wisely to earn points for flights, car rentals, and activities. Want to know which cards I recommend for earning travel rewards? Check out my Best Offers Page at the top of my site for the latest deals!

6. Why Stay at Schloss Roxburgh for Your Family Trip

Schloss Roxburgh was more than just a place to stay—it was an experience in itself. Imagine waking up in a historical castle, enjoying breakfast with sweeping views of the countryside, and then heading out for a family swim or exploring the grounds. It felt like a storybook adventure! 📖

Here’s why I highly recommend it for families:

• Spacious rooms that can accommodate families.
• Family-friendly amenities like a playground and swimming pool.
• The stunning grounds are perfect for picnics or a relaxed family day out.

Ready to Plan Your Own Scottish Adventure?

Are you ready to explore Scotland’s incredible landscapes, castles, and historic sites—all while saving money with points and miles? Book your flights, accommodations, and unique experiences using my affiliate links, and let me help you plan the ultimate road trip through Scotland!

Pro Tip: Want to learn how I travel the world for less? Follow me on Instagram for daily tips on how to use points and miles to fund your own family adventures!

Ready to book your next adventure in Scotland?

Need help opening your next travel credit card? Send me a DM or visit my Best Offers Page to get started.

Every booking through my links helps keep affordable travel alive for families like yours—thank you for your support, and happy travels!